Major car manufacturer to help Soweto find its next big star?

A major car manufacturer in SA is doing more than its fair share to help Soweto find its next big footballing star, with the help of some very recognisable figures. 

Volkswagen, in partnership with the Department of Basic Education, have launched its third consecutive VW Train 4 Life initiative which takes place in the Diepkloof community in Soweto, Gauteng. 

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The initiative, which is set to run from July to September this year, is designed to uplift young learners with one standout programme being a football tournament that could ignite a youngster's path to success in the beautiful game. 

An U15 girls' soccer tournament will be held, with another programme also being introduced. 

"This year introduces the new mentorship programme and accompanying bursary for selected individuals from the participating schools," VW said in a statement. 

"The initiative will span across 10 schools in Soweto, providing support, learning and empowerment to more than 10 500 Grade 8 and 9 female learners," it added. 

The mentorship will include the notable names of highly regarded football figures within the country. The star-studded list of mentors include: adored SuperSport football broadcaster Lerato Phago and 5FM sport presenter Xoli Zondo. 

The Soweto-born duo will be providing motivational sessions in the life skills sessions, and will also lead the mentorship programmes. 

Phago took to social media to thank VW for the opportunity to give back, and shared some footage of how she went about inspiring the leaders of tomorrow. 

"Thank you so much @volkswagensouthafrica for this opportunity to give back. So grateful to be part of this amazing initiative," the presenter wrote on Instagram. "Looking forward to mentoring one of these budding future broadcasters from Ekasi Lam- Soweto."