It’s always commendable when professional athletes give back to the communities that shaped them — and this weekend, footballer Alfred Ndengane is doing exactly that as young amateur players take to the field in the second annual Bafo Khewana Foundation and Alfred Ndengane Charity Cup.
The Cup kicks off this evening (Friday 14 November) at the Mandela Park Stadium in Khayelitsha, where Under-14 teams and senior sides will compete until Sunday. The tournament aims to create opportunities for young players during Cape Town’s off-season, while also raising much-needed funds for children in need.
Bafo Khewana, founder of the Bafo Khewana Foundation, says the tournament is driven by a simple mission: to support underprivileged children in Khayelitsha — and beyond.
“I started this foundation because I witnessed firsthand the struggles of underprivileged kids in Khayelitsha — lacking school uniforms, shoes and opportunities for growth,” he recalls. “Seeing these challenges sparked a desire to make a difference. Our roots are here, but our vision is to help wherever there’s need.”
Brands like aQuellé, Switch Energy and Sexy Socks have come on board as sponsors for this charitable event.
Funds raised through the tournament will go towards buying school shoes for children ahead of the 2026 back-to-school season.
Ndengane, who grew up in Khayelitsha, says joining forces with the foundation was a natural step.
“I was motivated by Bafo Khewana and the work he does for less fortunate kids in our community,” he says. “He helps with school shoes, uniforms — lots of things. I came on board to make it bigger through sport, because sport is an easy way to unite the community.”
Ndengane started his footballing career playing for clubs such as Fire Fighters. He then caught the attention of bigger clubs such as Hanover Park, and had spells at FC Cape Town and Bloemfontein Celtic, leaving the latter in 2018, before joining Orlando Pirates in 2019. He last played for Maritzburg United in 2023.
But for Ndengane, the event is about more than just football.
“It’s all about giving back to the community that raised me to be the person I am today.”
The tournament is expected to draw strong local support throughout the weekend, as families and football lovers rally behind a cause rooted in hope, unity, and opportunity.
