Absa steps forward as title sponsor for the African Icons Invitational: a commitment to support South African police families

Absa is thrilled to announce its title sponsorship of the African Icons Invitational, an annual cycling charity event set to take place from 22 to 25 February 2024, amid the captivating scenery of the Drakensberg.

This partnership follows Absa's donations and support to the charity over the past two years, solidifying its commitment to supporting African Icons' mission to make a positive impact on South African police families who have lost their breadwinners in the line of duty.

African Icons comprises a three-stage mountain bike ride event set in the scenic Drakensberg, forming part of the African Icons Invitational series. These cycling events aim to generate funds to support the families of South African police officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The raised funds are directed to the Widows and Orphans Fund (WOF) and the SA Police Service Education Trust (SAPSET), offering direct assistance to the beneficiaries in areas where their needs require urgent support.

A group of 50 riders, including participants from Absa's #SheUntamed community, will start the four-day social expedition on 22 February, in the Drakensberg. The #SheUntamed community, an Absa initiative that promotes diversity and inclusion in cycling, focuses on empowering women in the cycling realm.

Rory Steyn, founder of the African Icons Invitational and former policeman of more than 17 years, says, "We are thrilled to welcome Absa as the title sponsor for the African Icons Invitational. Their support will empower us to reach more families and make a lasting impact on the lives of those affected by the loss of their loved ones in the line of duty."

In the pursuit of making a meaningful difference in the lives of South African police families, the Absa African Icons serves as a fundraising platform, bringing together cycling enthusiasts, supporters and some of the world's most esteemed athletes to champion the cause. Among the distinguished African Icons, are Greg Minnaar, a South African world champion mountain bike racer with four world championships to his name; Joel Stransky, a renowned former rugby union player celebrated for his role as a flyhalf, and particularly for scoring all South Africa's points, including the winning drop goal, in the 1995 Rugby World Cup final against New Zealand; and Caroline Matsimela, founder of Matsimela Ladies Clinics, an organisation teaching African ladies to cycle, and a mentor and ambassador to #SheUntamed, Absa's initiative for women in cycling.

Tina Venter, Executive: Marketing Operations, Absa Group Marketing and Corporate Affairs, says, "Absa is proud to stand alongside the African Icons Invitational in its mission to support South African police families. Absa is playing an active role in building a better South Africa and living up to its commitment to being an active force for good in the communities in which it operates. We believe in the power of community and are committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those who have sacrificed so much for the safety and wellbeing of others."

To find out more about Absa African Icons, visit https://www.africanicons.org.za/, https://www.instagram.com/africaniconsinv/ on Instagram or https://www.absa.africa/media-centre/media-statements/.