“Dream big and never stop dreaming,” is the message that took centre stage at Credence Primary School in Heidedal as minister of sport, arts and culture Gayton McKenzie officiated the handover of a new multipurpose sports facility aimed at uplifting young people through sport.
Learners, educators, community leaders, and partners gathered to attend the handover on Monday (2/1), which forms part of ongoing school and youth sports development in Bloemfontein. The programme also included the handover of table tennis equipment at Heide Primary School and legacy swimming pool equipment at Stadium Swimming Pool.
Sporting gear was also distributed to Joe Solomon and Olympia Primary School. Addressing learners, McKenzie encouraged them to rise against all odds, drawing from his own life story and the experiences of people he knows. He emphasised that background should never limit ambition. “We grew up poor, but we had dreams to become something. Never stop dreaming. Change the path of your family, you don’t need to come from a rich family, so never stop dreaming. Dream and dream big,” he said.
Heidedal ward councillor and MMC Logan Kruger described the facility as a powerful legacy for the community, reminding those present that leadership and service are defined by what is left behind. Kruger urged the community to take ownership of the facility, stressing that it must be protected for the benefit of future generations.
Representatives from partner organisations and businesses, including Canal+ Africa chairman Calvo Mawela, former Bloemfontein Celtic and Kaizer Chiefs defender Fabian McCarthy, and Free State MEC for sport, arts and culture Zanele Sifuba, highlighted the role of sport in shaping well-rounded young people. It was noted that physical activity supports academic performance, discipline, and emotional well-being, while also keeping learners away from social ills.
Department of education district director December Moloi made an appeal to parents, learners, and community members to guard the facility against vandalism and theft, describing it as a safe space that offers hope and opportunity. The handover formed part of MultiChoice Group’s Let’s Play initiative.
