Hisense South Africa officially launched a new community soccer pitch development project in Soweto on Thursday, marking the start of a long-term grassroots football initiative aimed at creating opportunities for young players and strengthening community engagement through sport.
The launch event, held at the iconic Soweto Towers, brought together community members, local leaders, football stakeholders and media representatives to celebrate the beginning of a project that will provide a safe and purpose-built space for youth football development.
Once completed, the facility will host youth tournaments, football development programmes and community activities designed to nurture talent, build confidence and create pathways for aspiring footballers.
A highlight of the event was the production of a special support video for Bafana Bafana featuring young footballers from the community, representatives from Hisense South Africa, City of Johannesburg officials and ward councillors. The video captured messages of encouragement from Soweto residents to the national team, showcasing the township’s passion for football and national pride.
Speaking at the launch, Hisense South Africa Deputy General Manager Luna Nortje said the project reflects the company’s long-term commitment to investing in South African communities.
We don’t just operate in South Africa ,we have built alongside South Africa for nearly three decades,said Nortje.
This pitch development is a promise to the next generation. The video is a message from Soweto to Bafana Bafana, but the project itself is a longer-term commitment to young people, community pride and the belief that sport can open doors.
Hisense has maintained a presence in South Africa since 1996 and said the Soweto initiative forms part of its broader strategy to create meaningful impact beyond sponsorships through direct community investment.
The development also forms part of the company’s #HandsOnTheFuture campaign, which focuses on building sustainable opportunities through partnerships with local communities.
According to Hisense, the new facility will serve as a youth development hub that combines sport, education and community participation, helping to create an environment where young people can thrive both on and off the field.
As South Africa continues to rally behind Bafana Bafana, the project aims to leave a lasting legacy in one of the country’s most historic football communities, ensuring that future generations have access to facilities that can help turn football dreams into reality.
Images: Hisense South Africa