Following his brilliant clean sweep at the Kaizer Chiefs’ Player of the Year Awards for the 2013/2014 Premier Soccer League season, today Willard ‘Salt and Vinegar’ Katsande and Vodacom handed over R25 000.00 of prize money he pocketed for winning the Vodacom Fan Player of the Year to a charity of his choice.

Because Vodacom is celebrating its 20 years anniversary this year, the company increased the prize-money for the Vodacom Fan Player of the Year Award from R50 000 to R75 000 in 2014 to help the player donate R25 000 of the prize money to a charity of his choice. This is in keeping with Vodacom’s commitment to making a difference in the lives of South Africans.

“From inception we made a commitment to give back in communities we operate in by support sustainable projects that can help alleviate some of the country’s most pressing social challenges. For the past 20 years Vodacom has emphasised the importance of investing in sustainable CSI initiatives and we are immensely proud of using our sponsorships as another vehicle to empower a charity that’s doing great work out there,” said Rowen Gangulu – Brand Manager: Sponsorship Vodacom on Friday at the cheque handover.

“We are confident that Katsande’s contribution will go a long way in assisting Compass with the important work they do and make a meaningful difference to the women and children they support. The donation shows that sport has the power to inspire and make a change in the society at large.” said Rowen Gangulu.

Katsande’s donation coincides with Women’s Month, it is quite appropriate that the defensive midfielder donated R25 000.00 to Compass, a charity that offers food and shelter for abused and homeless women and children. The Edenvale-based charity does not only give some of the most vulnerable in society an opportunity to recover with dignity but also gives them hope of a better future.

A visibly emotionally touched Katsande said, “I thank God for this opportunity. A special thank you goes to my Club, Chiefs and our main sponsor Vodacom. I chose to support kids because of my background of growing up without my father. I know how it is to grow in this situation. I'm happy to share my achievement with this Children's home and wish everybody well going forward.”

At Compass the women undergo a two-year training programme that will enable them to find employment and gain their independence. The children are placed in school where Compass’ registered social workers and trained, qualified teachers and caregivers ensure the best level of education and caregiving.

Kaizer Chiefs Marketing Director Jessica Motaung looked at the event as part of the process and strategy of investing in the society, We are happy and gracious to witness this action. This is a sign of walking the talk in terms of our CSI Strategy in partnership with our main sponsor Vodacom. We would like to encourage Compass to continue with the great work they are doing with the kids and the women.