Football in South Africa is more than just a game. It is a cultural force that carries influence far beyond the pitch. As stadiums fill with passion and energy, football holds the unique ability to shape attitudes, behaviours, and values within communities.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Recognizing this, Carling Black Label’s #NoExcuse campaign is leveraging the power of football to drive real change in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV). Through the Champions for Change initiative, the campaign is working closely with some of the sport’s most respected figures, ensuring that mentorship, education, and positive masculinity become part of football’s DNA.
The Gauteng Media Pop-Up event, held in Johannesburg, gathered some of the most influential names in football and social advocacy. The event focused on one key message—men must take responsibility for ending gender-based violence. Conversations centered around how football, as a powerful unifier, can be used to challenge outdated perceptions of masculinity and redefine strength as accountability, integrity, and respect.
Carling Black Label Brand Manager Nonjabulo Ndwandwe reinforced the significance of this partnership, “For far too long, the issue of gender-based violence has been treated as a women’s issue when, in reality, it is a men’s issue too. Football has a captive audience of men—fans, players, and young boys looking for role models. That is why we are using this platform to reach them where they are. It is not just about what happens in the stadiums. It is about what happens in homes, in relationships, and in everyday interactions. Through the Champions for Change Course, we are ensuring that masculinity is redefined in a way that is healthy, respectful, and non-violent,” said Ndwandwe.
At the heart of the campaign is the Champions for Change Course, an educational program designed to challenge harmful social norms and provide men with the knowledge and skills to prevent gender-based violence.
Mamelodi Sundowns senior coach Steve Komphela spoke about the importance of mentorship and personal accountability in shaping young men’s perceptions of masculinity. He emphasized that football is not separate from society—it is a direct reflection of it.
The campaign has also received strong backing from football’s most influential voices, with 2025 #NoExcuse ambassadors stepping forward to advocate for meaningful change. Former Orlando Pirates captain, Happy Jele, Sekhukhune United captain, Linda Mntambo, and TS Galaxy Reserve Team Coach, Bernard Parker have joined the movement
The Champions for Change initiative is not just about education—it also provides men with direct support for those who are struggling with issues related to anger management, emotional trauma, or unhealthy relationship dynamics.
Men who need immediate guidance can reach out via a 24-hour helpline for confidential counselling by sending “BRAVE” via WhatsApp to 0800 150 150, or calling the same number to speak with a trained professional.
