Liberty Coal Partners with Happy Jele Foundation to Launch Youth Football Tournament

Liberty Coal Partners With Happy Jele Foundation To Drive Youth Development Through Sport

Liberty Coal has announced a three-year partnership with the Happy Jele Foundation, focused on advancing youth development and community upliftment through sport.

At the centre of the collaboration is the inaugural Liberty Coal–Happy Jele Middelburg Easter Tournament, set to take place over the Easter weekend at Themba Senamela Stadium.

A Platform For Opportunity And Talent Development

The three-day tournament will feature 32 underprivileged teams competing for a share of a R120,000 prize pool. Beyond competition, the initiative is designed to create meaningful opportunities for young athletes by providing exposure, development pathways, and a platform to showcase their talent.

The event is also expected to bring renewed energy to the township of Mhluzi, with multiple sporting activities aimed at keeping young people engaged in positive and structured environments.

A Long Term Commitment To Communities

The partnership, valued at over R3 million, forms part of Liberty Coal’s broader Community Upliftment Plan and reflects the company’s commitment to responsible mining and sustainable social impact.

Over the next three years, the initiative aims to grow into a lasting youth sporting platform that nurtures talent, strengthens social cohesion, and contributes to local economic activity.

Liberty Coal CEO Hlayiseka Chauke highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating that sport plays a vital role in shaping young lives.

“Sport has the power to transform lives, building discipline, confidence, and opportunity. This partnership is not just about sponsorship, it is about investing in young people and strengthening the communities in which we operate.”

Empowering The Next Generation

Happy Jele, founder of the Happy Jele Foundation, emphasised the personal significance of the partnership and its potential to create real change.

“This partnership gives us a platform to develop talent in the community I grew up in. I am hopeful that it will produce more football stars and give young people opportunities to succeed, just as I was given a chance to achieve what I have.”

Building A Sustainable Sporting Legacy

The partnership was officially announced at a media launch in Johannesburg on 20 March 2026, marking the formal signing of the agreement.

As the Easter tournament approaches, both organisations are focused on establishing a sustainable model that uses sport as a catalyst for development, opportunity, and long-term community impact.

“This is more than an event. It is a long-term investment in the future of our communities,” Chauke added.