Non-profit nominated for Laureus World Sports Awards
The Laureus World Sports Academy has recognised Made for More, the only South African organisation that has been nominated this year – for the work they do to make a significant difference in the lives of children.
LOCAL non-profit organisation Made for More has been nominated for the prestigious Laureus Sport for Good Award. This award recognises an individual or organisation who, in the opinion of the members of the Laureus World Sports Academy, has made a significant contribution to transforming the lives of children and young people through sport.
The international competition has recognised Made for More, the only South African organisation that has been nominated this year, for the work that they do to make a significant difference in the lives of children. Made for More is a non-profit company and public-benefit organisation that aims to include, empower and equip people with disabilities through sport and mental health programmes.
Julia Van Zyl, founder and managing director of the organisation, says they are still in awe. “The nomination makes us feel seen, valued and appreciated for the work that we do. It’s not always easy in the NPO space, and this award has totally blown wind in our sails. We feel so incredibly honoured!”
Van Zyl founded Made for More in 2016, saying she wanted people with disabilities to know that they are Made for More. “People with disabilities should know that they are created with a plan and purpose for their lives, and that they have the ability to pursue their dreams.”
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“Made for More’s vision is to see people with disabilities included, equipped and empowered to live a life of connection, wholeness, passion and purpose. Our mission is to break stigma, while empowering people with disabilities to discover their abilities, worth and divine purpose through community, sport, faith, mentorship and community projects. Made for More’s programme is unique because it focuses specifically on inclusion and using sport as a transformational tool for persons with disabilities,” said Van Zyl.
The organisation won the Letsema Murray and Roberts Awards in 2018 – the award recognises sports development projects for people with disabilities. “This award took us to a new level in sustainability, giving us the finances and security to hire a full-time coach to run our programmes,” said Van Zyl.
Made for More is focusing on productive goals for the future, such as getting the financial resources and partners to help finish a fully inclusive centre that is currently being built in Amahlongwa.
“We also hope to send some of our athletes to the Paralympics in 2028 for para surfing, but it is still to be finalised if para surfing will be in the 2028 Paralympics,” said Van Zyl.
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On March 11, Made for More will have athletes competing at the AIRE-ZA KZN Para Surfing Championships at Addington Beach. On March 24, athletes will be competing at the Boccia Tournament at Blue Roof Life Space in Wentworth, and on May 6, Made for More will be hosting a musical at Selborne Golf Estate and Spa in Pennington. If you would like to support the local athletes from this organisation or the non-profit organisation, head to these upcoming events.
If you would like to get involved, either as a participant, volunteer or financial partner, contact the organisation on info@madeformore.org.za or 083 235 1083 or on social media @madeformore or the website www.madeformore.org.za.
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