Talented young South Africans with limited resources are gaining access to education, sport and development opportunities through a cycling challenge backed by Medihelp Medical Scheme.
Medihelp has returned to the South African Hall of Fame CEO Cycle Challenge for a second year, doubling its participation from four cyclists last year to an eight-person team in 2026.
Beyond the kilometres covered by participating teams, the challenge raises funds for the South African Hall of Fame Legacy Project, which works to ensure financial circumstances do not prevent talented young people from reaching their potential.
The project takes a holistic approach to youth development, providing beneficiaries with access to quality education, sporting opportunities, essential equipment and broader personal development support.
For Medihelp, participating in the challenge connects two areas of focus: creating opportunities for young South Africans and encouraging people to incorporate physical activity into their everyday lives.
“Talent and potential shouldn’t be limited by circumstance,” said Werner van Deventer, head of Business Development at Medihelp.
“South Africa’s young people are our future, and initiatives such as the CEO Cycle Challenge give businesses an opportunity to do something practical to help unlock that potential.”
Medihelp first participated in the initiative last year, when its four-person team contributed towards the collective 1,000 kilometres cycled during the challenge.
This year, the medical scheme has doubled the size of its team to eight cyclists, strengthening its participation in the fundraising initiative while also promoting the role of movement in maintaining long-term health.
“Movement is one of the simplest investments we can make in our long-term health. Whether you’re competing at an elite level, cycling with friends, walking around the neighbourhood, or simply choosing to move more during the day, being active matters,” Van Deventer said.
“That is why sporting initiatives are such a natural fit for Medihelp.”
The partnership with the South African Hall of Fame forms part of Medihelp’s broader commitment to initiatives that combine healthier communities with practical opportunities for young people.
Through the CEO Cycle Challenge, that support extends beyond encouraging physical activity. Funds raised help young South Africans access the resources, education and development support needed to pursue opportunities that might otherwise remain beyond their reach.
