When Mbatha started her organisation, she says that education was one of her key focus areas. She adds that she is thrilled to be working with Hollywoodbets in this way, as both entities support students with the final goal being to develop South Africa's future business leaders.

"As a foundation, we not only empower child-headed homes, which are as a result of HIV/AIDS, but also support the youth of South Africa with skills development, employment as well as financial assistance towards their education," says Mbatha.

"Standing hand in hand with Hollywoodbets on this incredible journey is an honour. When we first began talks of how we could partner, I was taken through their entire CSI programme and was moved beyond comprehension when I discovered the insurmountable contributions they have and continue to make in communities around the country," adds Mbatha.

"We discovered that our vision was the same and a partnership was immediately formed. This important project will see numerous young people be released from the burden of financial strain. It will build confidence again in the youth of South Africa that no situation is too dire to be assisted. We cannot wait to make dreams come true and bring hope again," says Mbatha.

Hollywoodbets says that it has been actively investing in its communities around the country through the Hollywoodbets My Community Programme for the past eight years. Many schools and development sports teams around the country have benefited from the programme.

According to Sandisiwe Bhengu, Hollywoodbets' ibranch support business partner, this was the logical next step. "Our future is the youth of South Africa and by investing in them, we are investing in a brighter future for all. At Hollywoodbets, we believe that we can make a difference in people's lives by giving them a head start towards their careers, which in turn gives them access to the economy," says Bhengu. 

"We stand strongly behind the mission and values of The Lighthouse Foundation and are very impressed with the work done by Miss Mbatha, who has gained international success, but has remained true to the notion that charity begins at home," says Bhengu.

"We hope that we can make a difference in the lives of many people and we look forward to what 2020 has in store for us as we continue to empower our communities," concludes Bhengu.

For more information, visit www.hollywoodbets.net.