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EFF MP gets in the boxing ring for charity

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Maxim Kids, a non-profit organisation in Cape Town is calling on the community to support them on Friday 17th July for a charity boxing fight at Sea Point Civic Centre. The organisation, which focuses on the development of the sport of boxing for children in disadvantaged communities in South Africa, have approached professional and amateur boxers to fight for charity including Economic Freedom Fighter’s (EFF) politician Nazier Paulsen. Paulsen, who serves in the South African Parliament, says he’s excited about the prospect of fighting in the tournament.

“It is important to draw kids from underprivileged communities to sports activities. The organisation has brilliantly found a way to keep these kids off the streets by bringing a sport like boxing into their lives,” he said.

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Some of the kids at Maxim

“I like what Maxim Kids are doing on a practical level to fight against gangsterism and drug abuse. We should have more organisations doing this in our community. It is a way of discipline and can improve education for these kids.

“I am committed to bringing about change. To go out onto the streets and target serious issues head on takes commitment and courage. I love getting involved with kids in a positive way and I believe this can lead to more positive things.”

The organisation is headed by Congolese coach Allen Chizungu and provides a structured system through primarily boxing, while at the same time incorporates other suitable sports to keep kids engaged and motivated.

“Coach Allen is a great inspiration and has taught children in various townships across the Cape Flats. They love him and find a great interest in boxing. Just to see the smiles and excitement on these kids’ faces is amazing,” says Paulsen.

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One of the young fighters in the ring

Chizungu said working within the underprivileged communities of Cape Town is one of the best decisions he has ever made.

“It all started in 2010. I would go to Khayalitsha and watch these kids play and have fun. I then decided to bring the sport of boxing to them and get them more active in a more discipline way,” he recalls.

“This is when I decided to start my own organisation, not only teaching them the basis of boxing but also valuable life skills.”
Unfortunately, due to a shortage of funds, Maxim Kids is only able to work within the Kraaifontein and Khayalitsha area.

“We have great sponsors who contribute towards the organisation every year. But most of the time we have to use our own money to buy food and drinks for these kids on weekends. We are currently working with 100 kids in a community school hall,” Chizungu explains.

“I am calling on our community to support this charity event. Not only will charity go back into the organisation, but it will also help improve and develop this sport within more underprivileged communities in our country.”

Nazier Paulsen in a practise session
Nazier Paulsen in a practise session

In the meantime, Paulsen promises Cape Town will be in for a treat on the day of the charity match. He will go head to head with professional boxer Cedro Ngoy.

“I am going to give my opponent an opportunity to get one or two punches in and then knock him out real good, all in the name of charity…”

If you would like to know more about Maxim Kids or would like to contribute towards the charity fight, simply visit www.maximkids.co.za. Ticket cost only R150 and can be purchased online via Quicket www.quicket.co.za. VOC (Aishah Cassiem)


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