When football star Kholosa Biyana steps onto the pitch, it’s with purpose. Not only is she one of South Africa’s top footballers, but she’s also a champion off the field, dedicated to uplifting communities and changing lives through the Kholosa Biyana Foundation.
Her journey from under-resourced beginnings to international footballer has shaped a deep desire to give back. One moment in particular, visiting a school for children with learning disabilities alongside her Banyana Banyana teammates left a lasting impression.
“The smiles they put on my face that day… it hit me that they needed us more. I realised that when I made it, I had to go back and help. I want to show people who think they have boundaries that there are no limits.”
Kholosa Biyana, Banyana Banyana Footballer and Founder of the Kholosa Biyana Foundation
That spirit of giving is what drives the Foundation’s work. Biyana returned to Mthatha, her mother’s hometown, to make her first major donation, an emotional and symbolic gesture that speaks to her values: “Charity begins at home,” she says. “That’s where I wanted to start.”
Through the ‘Lace Up For Change’ initiative in partnership with Adidas, Biyana’s Foundation delivered close to 50 pairs of brand-new training sneakers and around 40 soccer balls to young footballers in the area. For aspiring players who often lack even the most basic equipment, this wasn’t just a gift: it was fuel for their dreams.
“The first thing you need as a footballer is a ball. Then you need shoes. If you have that, you’ve got the confidence to play. That changes everything.”
The impact of this partnership has been transformative. The Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies star says she’s grateful for the brand’s commitment to giving back and amplifying change where it’s needed most.
“Adidas truly lives their message that ‘impossible is nothing.’ They’ve helped us so much and we’re looking forward to doing more together.”
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For Biyana, grassroots development is non-negotiable, especially in areas like the Eastern Cape, where resources are scarce but talent abounds. She believes brands have a critical role to play in supporting young athletes, coaches, and community programs at the ground level.
“It all starts with development. The earlier kids have access to proper gear and training, the better their chances of making it. If brands invest now, they’re not only changing lives, they’re strengthening our national teams, our leagues, our future.”
As a woman in sport, the Banyana international understands the unique challenges that come with the journey. Her advice to young girls is simple but powerful: believe in yourself, put in the work, and know that greatness can come from anywhere.
“I’ve made it out of an under-resourced area, and they can too. The impossible is nothing.”
Looking ahead, her hopes for women’s football are clear: full professionalisation, better support structures, and the ability for players to make a real living from the game.
“Imagine what the national team could achieve if women’s football was fully professional. It would change everything.”
Kholosa Biyana is living proof of what’s possible when talent meets tenacity and when success is shared. Through her foundation and partnerships, she’s not just giving back, she’s paving the way forward.
Main Photo Caption: Kholosa Biyana’s dedication shines on and off the field; a top footballer and champion for her community through her foundation, she passionately uplifts lives and inspires hope, proving true success lies in creating positive change. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Driven by a desire to give back, football star Kholosa Biyana’s foundation provides opportunities and inspiration for young athletes in her community.
Photo 3 Caption: Biyana’s impactful work through her foundation provides vital resources and support to young footballers, fuelling their dreams.
Photo 4 Caption: More than just a celebrated athlete, Biyana champions her community through her foundation, nurturing the next generation of talent.
Photo 5 Caption: With a powerful spirit of generosity, Kholosa Biyana and her foundation actively transform lives and foster dreams within her community.
