October 2025 As South Africa continues to honour the power of women beyond August’s Women’s Month, the Muholi Art Institute (MAI) proudly steps onto the pitch to back the legendary Durban Grannies Football Club, affectionately known as the Durban Grannies as they head into a groundbreaking interprovincial soccer tournament in Cape Town, October 6–10, 2025.
In a bold move to amplify women’s voices in sport, MAI is sponsoring the team’s travel costs, profiling their inspiring journey through professional documentation, and featuring the squad in its upcoming 100 Women Project, a landmark initiative celebrating trailblazing South African women across disciplines.
These fierce grannies, aged 60 and above, hail from Durban and Pietermaritzburg senior citizens’ clubs, where they’ve forged sisterhood through football and community service. On and off the field, they are unstoppable: headlining curtain-raiser matches at youth tournaments, hosting inclusive friendlies for retirees, uniting communities on Women’s Day and Heritage Day, and volunteering at Sunday schools and youth programmes.
Comprising professionals turned athletes, educators, nurses, and even photographers such as team member Lizzy Muholi, the Grannies embody resilience, talent, and unyielding spirit. As reigning champions, they now prepare to represent KwaZulu-Natal against powerhouse clubs from Limpopo, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, and the Western Cape in a tournament that unites provinces through the beautiful game.
“It’s about time we rally behind women in South African sport with the same fervour we bring to every other arena,” said Zanele Muholi, Founder of MAI and acclaimed visual activist. “I applaud these incredible women for proving what we’re truly capable of, breaking barriers, building communities, and scoring victories that echo far beyond the pitch. At MAI, we celebrate women 24/7, 365 days a year. By supporting their travel, sharing their stories, and featuring them in our 100 Women Project, we’re not just supporting a team; we’re fuelling a movement for visibility, empowerment, and joy in every woman’s journey.”
Adding her lens to the legacy, player and official team photographer Lizzy Muholi has been capturing the squad’s grit and grace in intimate behind-the-scenes shots.
“As both a teammate and documentarian, I’ve seen firsthand how these gogos turn every challenge into a highlight reel,” said Lizzy. “From training under the KZN sun to volunteering in our communities, their energy is contagious. This Cape Town adventure isn’t just about goals, it’s about showing the world that women like us keep the ball rolling, no matter the score. I’m honoured to freeze these moments in time and share them through MAI’s lens.”
With flights and accommodation covered through the Grannies’ savings and MAI’s sponsorship, the focus now shifts to community power. The public is urged to help cover the final essentials for this once-in-a-lifetime quest. Every contribution, from gear to goodie bags, ensures these heroines play with full hearts and free minds.
Key needs include:
Team Gear: Tracksuits, T-shirts, hats, shorts, and backpacks.
Fuel for the Fight: Supermarket vouchers (Pick n Pay, Spar, Checkers, Woolworths) or meal vouchers (Wimpy, Steers, McDonald’s).
Smooth Journeys: Uber or Bolt credits for airport transfers and local transport.
Iconic Memories: Discounted entry to Cape Town highlights such as Robben Island, Table Mountain, or the City Tour Bus.
Wellness Boost: Goodie bags with healthy snacks, fruits, water, energy drinks, and first-aid supplies.
Cash donations welcome via the club’s verified account:
Durban Grannies | Tyme Bank | Savings Account No. 5300 2967 421
“This partnership with MAI feels like destiny, it’s lifting us higher than we dreamed,” said Ms. Hlokomani Ndwandwe, Organising Committee Member. “With Zanele and Lizzy’s support, we’re not just travelling, we’re telling our story to inspire every woman in South Africa to lace up and lead. Join us. Your backing turns our goals into a national win.”
Send-Off Event:
Media and supporters are invited to a lively community send-off in Durban on October 4, featuring a celebratory kickabout, player interviews, and exclusive MAI photo previews.
Follow the journey: #GranniesToCapeTown | #GogosOnThePitch | #MAIxDurbanGrannies
Released by Kwathole Conexion on behalf of Durban Grannies Football Club and Muholi Art Institute (MAI).
Source: ameyawdebrah.com/
