The Unity in Africa Foundation have been a beneficiary of the PwC Great Zuurberg Trek since its inception and next month’s event will serve to strengthen the partnership even further.
UinA director Bernice Rose credited their relationship with the mountain bike event for the foundations development over the years and said it had contributed greatly to the promotion and growth of the brand.
“This has been a win-win partnership from inception and the support we receive from the event greatly contributes in ensuring that we are able to continue our day to day running of the foundation.”
The foundation acts as a conduit between corporate and beneficiary organisations and specialises in socio-eco development, with a strong focus on education.
The relationship between the PwC Great Zuurberg Trek and Unity in Africa Foundation has grown over the years and these volunteers now play an active role in the event. Photo: Morné Marais
“The support we receive ensures our impact on investments is maintained and that we can continue to support our students,” she said. “It costs R25 000 per student per year to make a positive impact.”
Volunteers from UinA have played an active role in the event each year and PwC Great Zuurberg Trek co-founder Trevor Hayter said this had a number of positives for the foundation.
“One of the ways they get exposure is through the meet and greet service at the airport. They are involved with the receiving of riders as they land in Port Elizabeth,” he said.
The welcome service provided a chance to meet many of the participants and Rose said it was an opportunity to make important connections.
“Through these we hope to sign at least five additional companies to donate to our iGems programme.”
She said the aim of the programme was to increase the number of technical and engineering graduates from disadvantaged communities in Nelson Mandela Bay and place them in permanent employment.
The Sundays River Citrus Company Foundation Trust was named as the other beneficiary of this year’s event, which takes place from May 26 to 28.
Hayter said their decision to support two organisations stemmed from a desire to give back to the community.
