Local entrepreneur and philanthropist Zunaid Moti has officially announced the launch of the MotiMoves Pay It Forward initiative, an exciting R1 million education drive aimed at kickstarting 100 students’ first year of tertiary study in 2026.
Through the campaign, he will contribute R10,000 each towards the registration or tuition fees of 100 deserving students, helping them seize the opportunity to pursue their dreams and further their education, while lightening the often-heavy financial load on parents and guardians. The funds will be paid directly to tertiary education institutions on behalf of students.
Moti notes that while education often holds the key to better income-earning opportunities, steep fees can create an impenetrable obstacle that prevents youth from pursuing their studies.
“Education changes lives, not only for youth themselves, but often for families. When a student earns a qualification that will set them on the path of a rewarding career, it can change the direction of an entire household. But for many young people, that dream ends when the acceptance arrives, because the financial pressure is simply too great,” he says.
The Pay It Forward initiative is open to all South African residents aged 18 or older who have been accepted to study at an accredited tertiary institution in 2026, in any field.
How students can enter
To enter, students must record a 90-second video introducing themselves, explaining what they plan to study, and why this opportunity matters to them. Videos should be posted publicly on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, or X, tagging Zunaid Moti and using the hashtags #MotiMoves and #PayItForward.
Applicants must also email their supporting documents to [email protected]. This should include a copy of their South African ID, proof of residence (their own or their parent or guardian’s proof of residence), preliminary or final matric examination results, and their acceptance letter into an accredited tertiary education institution. Entries open 20 October 2025, and winners will be announced on 16 January 2026.
“The purpose of this initiative is very clear – it’s all there in the name. It’s about paying it forward. I’ve been fortunate enough to build successful businesses and access opportunities that many young people only dream of. This is my way of giving back – by helping those who’ve done the hard work of earning their place at university, but just need a small boost to get started.”
Powering futures through MotiMoves
The Pay It Forward initiative forms part of MotiMoves, a free business and entrepreneurship intervention programme launched to empower and inspire South Africa’s youth.
Through MotiMoves, Moti regularly shares practical business and entrepreneurial advice through newsletters and social media, motivating young people to build, innovate, and take charge of their own futures. Over the years, MotiMoves has supported various successful projects, including funding innovative start-ups and business ideas, hosting an entrepreneurial webinar series, sponsoring young sportsmen and women, and providing mentorship and exposure to entrepreneurial opportunities.
“MotiMoves is about action, not talk. Whether it’s helping a young entrepreneur turn their idea into a business or giving a student a helping hand with registration fees, the goal remains the same – to empower the next generation of South Africans to make their dreams a reality and move forward.”
Challenge to corporates and business leaders
In addition to putting R1 million of his own money towards education, Moti has called on the wider business community to join the campaign and help expand its reach.
“Every business in this country talks about empowerment,” he says. “But empowerment starts with access to education. Even a small contribution can make a meaningful difference – R10,000 can help one student register, and R5,000 each from two companies working together could help alleviate pressure from another student. We’ve all seen the power of Back a Buddy. Now it’s time to back a study.”
He emphasises that the initiative isn’t about funding entire degrees, but rather about reducing some barriers to entry.
“Talent and potential are everywhere, but opportunity isn’t. Sometimes R10,000 is just that one step too far for families, preventing students from realising the start of their future. If this campaign inspires others to give, mentor, or support our youth in any way, then we’ll achieve something far greater than the money itself.”
Youth can visit www.motimoves.co.za for full entry details and terms.