SOS Africa

Children's Charity

(UK Registered NGO: 1188705 / SA Registered NPO: 183-821)

SOS Africa sponsored student Elvino has been awarded a full rugby scholarship by Durban High School, one of the top ranked colleges in the country and a feeder-school for the Sharks rugby team...
SOS Africa Sponsored Child Elvino Awarded Full Rugby Scholarship by Durban High School
SOS Africa’s Elvino proudly wearing his new uniform on his first day at Durban High School

We are delighted to share the exciting news that SOS Africa sponsored student Elvino has been awarded a full rugby scholarship by Durban High School, one of the top ranked colleges in the country and a feeder-school for the Sharks rugby team.

The first children sponsored by SOS Africa in Grabouw in 2014
The first children sponsored by SOS Africa in the Western Cape

Elvino first joined SOS Africa’s Grabouw Education Programme in Grade 1 in 2014. In the years which followed, he developed into a fine rugby player and was recruited by Drostdy Technical College in January 2021; there he thrived both academically and on the rugby field. During pre-season matches, his silky skills were observed by a Durban High School Scout who promptly offered him a full scholarship to cover his remaining high school years in KwaZulu Natal. Within a few days, the offer was accepted, his flights booked and a thrilling new chapter had begun.

Elvino playing rugby at Drostdy Technical College
Elvino in action on the rugby pitch

“I am very excited about the move and couldn’t wait to play for Durban High School. Rugby is my passion and the idea of playing it professionally one day is my dream. Thank you to my SOS Africa sponsors for always believing in me. I hope to always make you proud!” Elvino (SOS Africa Student).

Elvino and classmate Linden with their families
Elvino and his family when the first joined SOS Africa in 2014

Elvino’s story has always been a collective effort, with unconditional support from many family members and friends from his local community. At the very centre of this ever-growing support base, are his parents and number one fans, Elizabeth and John:

“Elvino’s family and friends are all jumping for joy! Durban High is a great school which will provide Elvino with fantastic opportunities both now and after he graduates. From the bottom of our hearts, we would like to thank SOS Africa for its support of Elvino since he was 6 years old in Grade 1. If it wasn’t for your input, Elvino’s future would have been so uncertain. We know that Elvino is very keen to keep in touch with Matt and his SOS Africa family.” Elizabeth and John (Elvino’s Parents).

Elvino with other Grabouw students sponsored by SOS Africa
Elvino visiting his SOS Africa peers at the charity’s Grabouw Education Centre

Elvino couldn’t wait to share this exciting news with his SOS Africa family at Grabouw High School. Within a few days of joining Durban High, Elvino has helped their rugby team win one of the opening matches of their new season.

“It has been a privilege to follow Elvino’s journey from the Primary School classrooms of Grabouw to the rugby pitches of Drostdy and now Durban High. This special young gentleman is the epitome of hard work and dedication and truly deserves this life-changing opportunity. Elvino is an inspiration to us all; we wish him every success for his very bright future, and if one day we have to become Sharks fans, then so be it!” Matt Crowcombe (SOS Africa Founder).


Interested in sponsoring the next Elvino? Click here to Sponsor a Child through SOS Africa.