Rich SA Entrepreneur Pledges R1 Million to Cover 100 South African Students’ Tuition or Registration Fees
Local entrepreneur and philanthropist Zunaid Moti is turning heads with an ambitious pledge to invest R1 million into the education of South Africa’s youth. Through his new MotiMoves Pay It Forward initiative, 100 deserving students who face financial barriers will each receive R10,000 to cover their tuition or registration fees for their first year of tertiary study in 2026.
The initiative aims to pay the funds directly to accredited institutions, giving students the financial breathing room to focus on what truly matters: learning and building their futures.
“Education changes lives, not only for youth themselves, but often for families. For many young people, the dream ends when acceptance arrives because the financial pressure is simply too great,” Moti says.
The Pay It Forward programme is open to all South African residents aged 18 and older who have been accepted to study at a recognised tertiary institution. Moti is encouraging students to get creative: to enter, they must record a 90-second video explaining who they are, what they plan to study, and why this opportunity matters to them.
Entries will be posted publicly on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, or X, tagging Zunaid Moti and using the hashtags #MotiMoves and #PayItForward. Applicants also need to submit their supporting documents—including ID, proof of residence, matric results, and acceptance letters—to education@zunaid-moti.co.za. Winners will be announced on 16 January 2026.
“Paying it forward” isn’t just a tagline
Moti’s pledge isn’t an isolated act of generosity—it’s part of MotiMoves, a free business and entrepreneurship programme designed to empower South Africa’s youth. Through MotiMoves, he shares practical advice, funds start-ups, mentors young entrepreneurs, sponsors athletes, and motivates students to take charge of their futures.
“I’ve been fortunate enough to build successful businesses and access opportunities that many young people only dream of. This is my way of giving back – by helping those who’ve done the hard work, but just need a small boost to cover tuition or registration fees.”
Calling on corporates to join
Beyond his own R1 million contribution, Moti is challenging other South African businesses and entrepreneurs to step up.
“Every business talks about empowerment, but empowerment starts with access to education. Even a small contribution can make a huge difference—R10,000 helps one student cover tuition or registration fees. If we all give a little, we can help hundreds more.”
Moti stresses that the initiative isn’t about funding entire degrees but removing barriers that prevent talent from accessing opportunity.
“Talent is everywhere, but opportunity isn’t. Sometimes R10,000 is the difference between a student starting their studies or waiting another year. If this campaign inspires others to give, mentor, or support our youth in any way, then we’ll achieve something far greater than the money itself.”
How to participate
Students can visit www.motimoves.co.za for full entry details and terms.
This bold pledge shines a spotlight on the power of giving back—and challenges South Africa’s business leaders to put action behind words. For these 100 students, 2026 could be the year their tuition or registration fees are fully covered, setting them on the path to success.
