Some of the biggest names in football have come together to sign portraits of themselves painted by local African artists to raise money for the Nelson Mandela foundation in South Africa. The foundation set up by the former president acts to raise awareness of HIV & Aids across the African continent.
Signing the creative work of local artists were Zinedine Zidane, Oliver Khan, and former Argentinean goalkeeper Sergio Goycochea, amongst others.
Steven Pienaar of the current South Africa football team said, “I think that the education that they give about HIV and Aids in some African countries is not as good as it is in Europe for example and this is a big problem.” Former German Captain Oliver Khan added, “I am aware that I am very lucky to have been a football player and that it is important for me to get involved with those people who were less fortunate than I was.”
The “Sport has a power to change” motto is just one of the many messages promoted by former South African President Mandela. The 46664 Nelson Mandela Charity was inspired by his Robben Island Prison Number.
The paintings will be auctioned off in partnership with adidas.