Telkom stands as a beacon of unwavering commitment to both women’s sports and youth development in South Africa, a vision embodied through its multifaceted Stand Tall Campaign, sponsorship of the 2023 Netball World Cup, and strategic investment in esports through VS Gaming. This commitment was acknowledged at the 2023 Hollard Sports Industry Awards, where Telkom won four awards! Not only did #StandTall win campaign of the year but Telkom won the coveted brand of the year for work done across all sponsorships including VS gaming.
At the heart of the #StandTall initiative lies a dedication to empowering and nurturing talent. The company’s proactive role as a pioneering sponsor of the 2023 Netball World Cup stands as a testament to this commitment, echoing a resounding message of empowerment, unity, and inclusivity in the realm of women’s sports. The #StandTall Campaign is more than a campaign—it is a call to action driven by SPAR Proteas netball players Bongi Msomi, Izette Griesel, Khanyisa Chawane and Tshina Mdau.
Internally, Telkom ignited passion among its staff, instilling the values of empowerment and support for women’s sports. The Telkom Netball League and Telkom Championship serve as platforms where these values manifest, providing a stage for talent to flourish and aspirations to take flight. The thrilling semi-professional tournament came to a celebratory end with the Gauteng Jaguars being crowned the champions of the 2023 Telkom Netball League.
However, the impact goes beyond the tournament, not only was the 2023 Netball World Cup the most-watched sporting event of 2023 shattering previous records with over 17.9 million views but the South African viewership alone outperformed the entire 2019 Netball World Cup global viewership.
The #StandTall Clinic stood as a nurturing ground, fostering skill development and personal growth, while the #StandTall Youth Exhibition Match during the Telkom Netball League finals shone a spotlight on emerging talent, underscoring the importance of giving young girls the confidence to stand tall.
The pinnacle of Telkom’s dedication culminates in its sponsorship of the 2023 Netball World Cup, which was also awarded the prestigious Best Sports Event of the Year at the Sports Business Awards in London. By supporting this global event, Telkom not only elevates the status of netball but also champions the spirit of empowerment and unity on an international stage. Through these initiatives, Telkom’s commitment to women’s sports and youth development is a vibrant tapestry, woven with passion, dedication, and a steadfast belief in the power of sport to transform lives and create a more equitable future.