A group of 16 female inmates at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre have become the first female cohort from South Africa to graduate from the Twinning Project, a global pioneering football coaching programme. The initiative, a partnership between Kaizer Chiefs, the FIFA Foundation, and the Department of Correctional Services, aims to rehabilitate women through football coaching lessons, empowering them for reintegration into society upon release.

The programme, which began in September 2024, provided inmates with a comprehensive seven-module training programme, spanning few weeks. The programme, led by Kaizer Chiefs coaches, Dillon Sheppard, Aubrey Mathibe and the Club’s sports scientist, Muzi Maluleke, imbued participants with valuable coaching skills and knowledge.

The graduation ceremony, held at the Johannesburg Correctional Centre on 20 March 2025, marked a significant milestone in the programme's success, demonstrating the power of football to drive positive change and rehabilitation.

Amongst those who attended the event included, the Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, Lindiwe Ntshalintshali, National Commissioner, Mokgothi Thobakgale, Twinning Project CEO, Hilton Freund, SAFA deputy president, Linda Zwane and Banyana Banyana coach, Desiree Ellis.

Through the programme, the inmates developed essential life skills, such as teamwork, discipline, and communication, which will enable them to make a positive impact in their communities upon release.

“We are encouraging them that upon release, they should not recommit crimes and find themselves back in our facilities,” said Lindiwe Ntshalintshali Deputy Minister of Correctional Services, adding, “We want them to open football clubs and coaching clinic facilities, managed by themselves, so that people can invest in their projects, which will benefit many communities”

Furthermore, the programme has provided a platform for the inmates to build their confidence, self-esteem, and emotional intelligence, ultimately enhancing their chances of successful reintegration into society.

"We are proud to be part of this innovative programme," said Jessica Motaung, Kaizer Chiefs' Marketing and Commercial Director, "Our coaches have shared their expertise with the inmates, providing them with valuable coaching skills. We congratulate the graduates and wish them all the best for their futures."

The programme was launched globally a few years ago, with the first ones being implemented in the UK and other continents. It brings professional football clubs and institutions together to prepare prisoners for release and employment.

"We are thrilled to see the positive impact of our programme on the lives of these women," said Hilton Freund, Global CEO of the Training Project, "We congratulate the graduates and wish them continued success on their journey towards rehabilitation and reintegration into society, and to engage in more pro-socially productive behaviour."