Two South Africans Raise Funds in London for SA Initiatives

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Matthew and Nicholas McGregor launched the Kesho Collective as a way to unite South Africans in London and raise funds for charity in SA.

London, United Kingdom (18 October 2024) – Nicholas McGregor and Matthew McGregor, cousins from South Africa now living in the United Kingdom, have found a great way to unite the South African community in London, while still supporting charitable causes in South Africa. The duo are creating meaningful impact through their non-profit Kesho Collective, which was founded earlier this year.

Living in the UK, the cousins realised they could harness the green and gold community and the Ubuntu that runs deep within every South African’s to give back to their selected charities the Mzansi’s Rugby Academy and the Rosey’s Crèche and Daycare.

Through the hosting of events, many themed around the exciting rugby games our Springboks play, Nicholas and Matthew are able to collect donations and raise funds from event proceeds that go directly to the charities. They have had great success so far, having hosted two sold-out events so far and a third on the card for November.

These events provide South Africans living in the UK with the chance to celebrate their culture, support their team, and give back to their home country. It’s a reminder that no matter how far away they are, South Africans can still come together to make a difference.

How It Works

Kesho Collective raises funds primarily through monthly donations and events. Their passion for South Africa is echoed in their love for the Springboks, and they have harnessed that enthusiasm to create a community of rugby-loving South Africans living in London. Through highly successful screening events for Springbok matches, they have brought people together, sold out venues, and raised substantial amounts for charity.

They have an upcoming event for the Springboks v England rugby game on the 16th of November 2024, should you be keen to join, you can find out more here. Note the funds for the event will go directly to the Mzansi’s Rugby Academy and Rosey’s Crèche.

The Mzansi’s Rugby Academy is based in Port Alfred and supports local children through rugby and education. The academy is run by Barry Scharneck and Alex Floyd-Douglas. They work with teens from the age of 13-18 by providing them with rugby training, transport to fixtures, and educational support. Soon, they will have a fully-fledge programme for women’s rugby too.

For the youth to take part in the academy, they need to show academic interest by keeping their grades up. This ensures that they get a balanced academic and sporting education.

“We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved so far, particularly being able to fund and support a full rugby sevens festival for youth in the Eastern Cape with Mzansi’s Rugby Academy. It’s amazing to give these young athletes visibility on SuperSport Schools, and we truly believe in the power of sport to uplift communities and help South Africa reach its full potential.” – Matthew McGregor

Rosey Mbikwana, runs the Rosey’s Crèche and Daycare which is based in Mthatha. The daycare provides a safe space and meals for children while their parents are at work. Rosey’s ultimate goal is to offer these children better educational facilities.

Through the Kesho Collective, they are fundraising to build a new classroom for the crèche, with the hope of completing it for the new school year.

“We’re incredibly proud to be a part of such life-changing initiatives,” said Nicholas McGregor. “Through the support of our London community, we’re able to send vital funds to South Africa and make a real difference where it matters most.”

For more information about Kesho Collective or to get involved, visit keshocollective.com