Where founders, investors, researchers, and students connect, one game at a time.

At SWEAT Africa, we believe that the strongest partnerships aren’t always built in meeting rooms. Sometimes they begin with a shared challenge, a great conversation on the sidelines, or a game of football.

Join us for the first SWEAT Africa Connect: Football Edition, an afternoon of social 6-a-side football designed to bring together the people shaping Africa’s innovation ecosystem. This is an open challenge, and any team is welcome to play.

Hosted in partnership with CERI (Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation) at Stellenbosch University, CubeSpace, Launchlab, and the Stellenbosch Network. Whether you’re an experienced player or just looking to meet inspiring people, everyone is welcome.

Come with your own team of six, or join one on the day. The football is friendly, but the connections can be game-changing.

When the final whistle blows, the conversations continue. Enjoy boerewors rolls and drinks while founders, investors, researchers, students, and innovators exchange ideas, discover opportunities, and build relationships that can shape the future.

Who should join?

• Startup founders
• Investors and venture capitalists
• Researchers and scientists
• Students passionate about entrepreneurship and innovation
• Builders, dreamers, and anyone excited about Africa’s future

We urge research groups, businesses, and student societies to form their own teams, purchase tickets for their members, and register to play.

How to form a team

1. Gather six players from your organisation, research group, or student society.
2. Purchase a ticket for each team member via Quicket.
3. Email Graeme Dor 26792257@sun.ac.za to confirm your team’s participation.

Spots are limited, so register early to secure your team’s place on the pitch.

Event Details

Venue
Lentelus Sports Grounds, Stellenbosch (Home of Stellenbosch FC’s training facilities)

Date
Friday, 21 August 2026

Time
Football, Food and Networking: 4:00–7:00 PM

Ticket
R60 via Quicket, includes entry and a boerewors roll.
Secure your ticket here :https://www.quicket.co.za/events/389361-sweat-africa-connect-football-edition/#/

Prize
Winning team walks away with R2 000 cash.

Come to play. Stay to build.

At SWEAT Africa, we believe that innovation grows through trust, community, and shared experiences. This isn’t just another networking event, it’s a chance to meet the people building Africa’s future in an environment where conversations happen naturally and collaborations begin.

Play for bragging rights. Play for R2 000.
Bring your boots. Bring your curiosity. Bring your ambition.

Let’s sweat together. Let’s build together.