Home / Our story
Where it started
It began with one fan's dream and a crowd of strangers who decided rivalry stops at the touchline. This is how a viral video became a walk onto the pitch at FNB Stadium.
Who we are
Rivals on the pitch. One family in the stands.
The African Football Connection is a supporters' platform that sits above the clubs. Supporters of Orlando Pirates, Kaizer Chiefs and Mamelodi Sundowns argue every weekend, but in 2026 they gave money together to bring a Nigerian Pirates fan to her first Soweto Derby.
That campaign proved something: supporters of rival clubs will build something together when the story is right. We turn that energy into fan experiences, a membership that every club community can belong to, and results partners can measure.
The journey
From a viral video to the pitch
Seven steps, each with the source that reported it.
What we stand for
Our values
Rivalry belongs on the pitch. In the stands, supporters look after each other.
We publish numbers only when they are verified, with the source and the date.
Every campaign starts with real fans and real stories, never with a script.
Rooted in Soweto, home of the derby, and reaching fans across Africa.
The people
Built by supporters
Princess Ndobe
Did the heavy lifting on the ground, including securing Orlando Pirates FC approvals for derby-day stadium logistics.
Sphiwe
Co-founded the campaign and the platform.
Frank Phoshoko
An initial principal in the campaign, managing relationships with partners and stakeholders.
Phillip Jwarah
A branch supporter whose standing gave the project credibility with fans from the start.
China
Championed the unity at the heart of the campaign: a Chiefs fan helping bring a Pirates fan to the derby.
Zodwa Khoza Foundation NPC
Supported the initiative through Sibusiso Ethan Ntuli, helped facilitate stadium approvals and hosted Anoda Mirakle during her visit.
Be part of the next story
Sponsors, clubs, media and supporters: talk to us about the next campaign, the membership launch and the documentary series.