First-Time Marathoners Run to Support Amy Foundation Youth Programmes

As anticipation builds for the 2026 Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, South African entertainer Rob van Vuuren and Amy Foundation staff member Giovanni Afrika are preparing to take on their first-ever 42.2km race in support of youth development initiatives across Cape Town.

The pair will run to raise funds for the Amy Foundation, which works with vulnerable children and young adults in township and Cape Flats communities through after-school programmes, mentorship, skills training and educational support. Van Vuuren aims to raise R18,000 to sponsor two children in the organisation’s after-school programme for a year, while Afrika hopes to secure R9,000 to support one youth participant through a full year of skills development training.

Van Vuuren said the challenge has pushed him both physically and mentally, adding that the opportunity to contribute to the future of young people made the effort worthwhile. Afrika, who grew up on the Cape Flats, described the marathon as an opportunity to represent an organisation making a tangible difference in local communities.

Founded nearly three decades ago, the Amy Foundation focuses on helping young people overcome challenges linked to poverty, unemployment and violence by providing educational support, life skills and pathways to employment. The organisation says the fundraising campaign forms part of its ongoing efforts to expand opportunities for youth across the Western Cape.

The runners are encouraging public support ahead of race day, with donations contributing directly to the foundation’s youth development programmes. Donations can be made via BackaBuddy.