Zimbabwean-born South African professional rugby player,Tendai Mtawarira (‘The Beast’) established The Beast Foundation in August 2020 on a mission to inspire and build young people in Africa. The Foundation will host an annual rugby bootcamp which will be aired on MTV Base, MTV, Comedy Central and BET as a 10-part reality TV Show. The bootcamp is an all-expenses-paid programme open to boys and girls between 16 and 20 years old.
The camp takes place at the home of the Sharks and includes a uniform, playing kit, accommodation, transportation, food and learning material, learning sessions that unpack the theory of rugby, scientific elements and the actual coaching conducted by professionals.
The participants will also get to meet national and international rugby players, the chance to travel and get scouted to play professionally and an accredited certificate at the end of the programme.
“It is a reality that many talented youngsters go unrecognised; any one of the millions of children on our sports fields could be the next world champion if just given the chance to showcase their abilities. And this is where I and The Beast Foundation can step in to help young South Africans access sports training, skills development and education opportunities and ensure that this next generation has the crucial life skills needed for success beyond sport,” says Mtawarira.
In addition to the bootcamp, the Foundation will also link beneficiaries to bursary opportunities for both local and international education and facilitate exchange programmes.
“The Beast Foundation aims to transform communities and deliver effective mentorship to young people from underprivileged backgrounds. So, as part of our offering, we also provide assistance in career decisions, developing and harnessing marketable skills, setting realistic and actionable goals and building a professional network for both youngsters just setting out as well as seasoned players,” added Mtawarira.
