By Kevin Rademeyer.
Tennis legend Roger Federer concluded a meaningful visit to South Africa, emphasizing his commitment to education and early childhood development. Partnering with Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, Federer visited schools in rural Mpumalanga and engaged with young learners, reinforcing his foundation’s efforts to improve access to quality education.
A Personal Connection to South Africa
Federer’s trip to South Africa was deeply personal. His mother, Lynette Federer, was born in Kempton Park, which has long inspired his philanthropic work in the country. Through the Roger Federer Foundation, he has actively supported early childhood education, with a specific focus on the transition from preschool to primary school in Limpopo and Mpumalanga.
During his visit, Federer, along with Kolisi, engaged in coaching clinics and toured the local villages, strengthening ties with the communities they seek to uplift.
A Shared Vision for Education and Sport
Federer and Kolisi’s partnership extends beyond the sports field. The two athletes, who became friends after Federer expressed support for the Springboks during the 2019 Rugby World Cup, share a deep commitment to social change. Kolisi, through his own foundation, focuses on gender-based violence and poverty alleviation, while Federer prioritizes early childhood education. Together, they recognize the transformative power of sport in education.
At a media briefing in Johannesburg, Federer highlighted the significance of their collaboration. “Having Siya along with us has been beautiful; he has many stories to tell, and he is an inspiration for many. Education is a natural fit for me. I started this foundation 21 years ago with my family, and I hope we can look back one day and celebrate the difference we’ve made in children’s lives.”
Kolisi echoed Federer’s sentiments, emphasizing the importance of holistic child development. “Our foundation focuses on multiple aspects, including gender-based violence, poverty, and education. Sport is an essential tool, but it must be integrated with proper nutrition and academic support. We want to give children options, ensuring they stay engaged in positive activities after school.”
The Role of Sport in Education
While neither foundation is solely focused on sports, both Federer and Kolisi acknowledge its vital role in shaping young minds. Federer pointed out that in Switzerland, sport is integrated into education to enhance cognitive and social development. “Sports teach valuable life lessons—winning, losing, teamwork, and discipline,” he explained. “These are crucial skills that extend far beyond the field or court.”
Kolisi added, “When I was growing up in the township, sports kept me focused. I would go to school, play sports all day, and come home exhausted. That kept me out of trouble. If we can provide children with structured activities, we give them a foundation for success.”
Federer Foundation CEO Maya Ziswiler further emphasized the role of motor skill development in early education, noting that these fundamental abilities are critical for success in sports and overall learning.
A Lasting Commitment
Federer’s visit was unique in that he was accompanied by his entire family, further solidifying his connection to South Africa. His foundation has already benefited nearly three million children across southern Africa, investing CHF 77.5 million (R1.6 billion) in education initiatives across six countries.
With the opening of the Roger Federer Foundation’s Johannesburg office, Federer aims to strengthen long-term educational support in South Africa. “It’s important to me that my children also see the work we’re doing firsthand. This trip was special because, for the first time, my parents, wife, and four children all traveled together.”
Looking Forward
Federer and Kolisi’s collaboration is set to grow, with both athletes expressing interest in expanding their efforts to support South African youth. Kolisi hinted at introducing Federer to traditional South African cuisine, jokingly suggesting a slow introduction to chisa nyama and umngqusho.
Beyond their friendship, the two sports icons are building a legacy of social impact, ensuring that their influence extends far beyond the arenas they once dominated. As Federer noted, “We are here to do the best for children and for South Africa. The people are more important than what our foundations are doing individually. Together, we can make a real difference.”