Thandy Matlaila Runs the Cape Town Marathon 2025 for Warriors of West & Katlegong AC

Actress and Entrepreneur Thandy Matlaila is once again lacing up her running shoes for purpose, as the Thandokazi Foundation returns to the Cape Town Marathon for the 2025 edition. Building on the incredible momentum of last year where over R100,000 was raised from corporate sponsors and more than R6,000 from the public via the Back A Buddy platform. This year’s beneficiaries are the Warriors of West and Katlegong Athletics Club (AC).

In 2024, the foundation partnered with Central Gauteng Athletics to carefully select beneficiaries whose work in youth development has had a lasting impact. This year’s chosen clubs continue that legacy, representing grassroots efforts to empower young athletes through structured training, mentorship, and community upliftment.
The foundation, launched in 2022, focuses on empowering and developing young men and women through sports participation, wellness, and self-awareness. Its mission is to break barriers that prevent aspiring athletes from accessing proper resources, ensuring they can thrive both on and off the field.

In her 42KM marathon, Thandy is calling on brands and sponsors to support through in-kind or monetary contributions, which will be donated directly to young girls and athletes in need. Examples of sponsorship opportunities include :

• Sports Bras: Over 150 sports bras are needed. Many young girls run in incorrect undergarments, leading to injuries or dropping out of sports altogether.
• Sanitary Items for Women: 420 packets of pads (10 per kilometre) — helping ensure that no girl misses practice or competition due to lack of menstrual products.
• Running Shoes: For every kilometre she runs, sponsors can donate a pair of shoes (making it 42 pairs in total, for example). Last year, 106 pairs of shoes were donated.
• Monetary Contributions: For example, sponsoring R10 per kilometre completed, or any custom pledge aligned to brand budgets.

Collectively, the foundation has already facilitated the donation of R120,000+ worth of gear to disadvantaged athletes, with the goal of expanding this even further in 2026.
“Sports is more than running ,it is about dignity, confidence, and opportunity,” says Thandy. “By equipping these young athletes with the right gear and resources, we’re not just helping them compete . We’re making sure they stay in the game, stay motivated, and stay dreaming.”

The Thandokazi Foundation aims to eliminate these barriers so that every child with talent and drive can rise to their full potential both on and off the field.Public and corporate sponsors are invited to partner with the Thandokazi Foundation and Thandy Matlaila on this impactful journey. Donations can be made via Back A Buddy, or by contacting the foundation directly for sponsorship collaborations.