PPS strengthens commitment to youth development with second-year sponsorship of Mangaung Knights at St. John’s basketball tournament

For the second consecutive year, Professional Provident Society (PPS) has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development and community empowerment by sponsoring the Mangaung Knights at the prestigious 20th St John’s College Basketball Tournament, taking place from 20 – 22 February.

Widely recognised as the largest basketball tournament in the Southern hemisphere, the St John’s College Basketball Tournament has grown into a premier platform for emerging talent. This year’s edition brings together 64 teams from three countries and four provinces, showcasing the skills of 764 young athletes.

In a sporting landscape where basketball often takes a backseat to other codes, PPS’s continued support of the Mangaung Knights (U13 and U15 teams) plays a pivotal role in elevating the game and unlocking opportunities for young players.

“Sport has the power to shape young minds and promote resilience, teamwork and leadership – qualities essential to future graduate professionals,” says Ayanda Seboni, Group Executive: Mutuality at PPS. “By investing in the Mangaung Knights for a second year, we are not only nurturing raw talent but also reinforcing our belief in the potential of youth to excel both on and off the court.”

PPS’s sponsorship extends beyond financial backing, embodying a deeper commitment to holistic youth development. Through initiatives like this, PPS helps create avenues for young athletes to build confidence, pursue their ambitions and become well-rounded individuals.

Further amplifying its social impact, PPS is proud to support the Pink Drive Initiative in the fight against gender-related cancers. For every three-pointer scored in the U19 segment of the St John’s College tournament, PPS will donate R100 to Pink Drive to help raise awareness and funds for this important cause.

Ensuring long-term well-being is just as important as supporting young talent. PPS offers Critical Illness cover to provide financial security in the face of life-changing diagnoses, including gender-related cancers. This cover offers a lump-sum payout to ease the burden of severe illnesses such as cancer, heart attack, stroke, multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease, helping individuals focus on recovery without financial stress.

The impact of this sponsorship resonates beyond the tournament itself, influencing families, schools and local communities. As PPS continues to champion young talent, it remains dedicated to creating opportunities that empower the next generation, ensuring that the spirit of excellence extends far beyond the game.

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