“Without extracurricular activities young people turn to drugs, alcohol and gangsterism which leads to high dropout and failure rates. Also, kids turn to gangsterism because of their need for a sense of belonging that many don’t have in their fragmented family environment. If left alone, it is a cycle that will just continue.”
Mario van Niekerk – Founder
“My experience with GCU is one that I will remember for the rest of my life. I was greeted with open arms and warm hearts. Being around these kids gave me a deeper appreciation for life. GCU has created a space where kids can just be kids, away from the many troubles they encounter in their tough neighborhood.I feel incredibly privileged and honored to have been a part of this organization and I hope that I left behind a meaningful and lasting impact. This organization is changing lives and I can only hope and pray that people will continue to support and fulfill Mario’s vision of a better future for kids in Heideveld.”
Tess Dupre, Intern, Student-Athletes Abroad
“My experience with GCU is one that I will remember for the rest of my life. I was greeted with open arms and warm hearts. Being around these kids gave me a deeper appreciation for life. GCU has created a space where kids can just be kids, away from the many troubles they encounter in their tough neighborhood.I feel incredibly privileged and honored to have been a part of this organization and I hope that I left behind a meaningful and lasting impact. This organization is changing lives and I can only hope and pray that people will continue to support and fulfill Mario’s vision of a better future for kids in Heideveld.”
Tess Dupre, Intern, Student-Athletes Abroad
“GCU taught me that I have to trust my strengths and believe that achieving anything is possible. It was a life changing experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. I can’t wait to see the continued growth in GCU as they move forward.”
Daniel Leto, Intern, Student-Athletes Abroad
“GCU taught me that I have to trust my strengths and believe that achieving anything is possible. It was a life changing experience that I will remember for the rest of my life. I can’t wait to see the continued growth in GCU as they move forward.”
Daniel Leto, Intern, Student-Athletes Abroad