Field of Dreams: Standard Bank in partnership with The Maharishi Invincibility Institute Break Ground on First-Ever CBD Soccer Field to Champion Inner-City Youth

Officially unveiled on 5 September, this landmark project transforms a piece of land in what was historically a mining town into a space dedicated to mining a new kind of gold: the untapped potential of South Africa’s youth.

Driven by legendary South African cricketer and former SA cricket captain, Dr Ali Bacher, with the support and co-ordination of the multi-stakeholder coalition, JoziMyJozi, who are working to transform the future of the CBD, the project is a testament to collaborative vision. Standard Bank has generously provided the land and initial funding to establish the facilities, with crucial support from partners Italtile, BW Cares Foundation, along with an anonymous donor to make it all possible. Together, these partners are investing in a safe, vibrant space where young people can dream, play, and grow.

"The Field of Dreams represents our deep commitment to the regeneration of Johannesburg and our belief in the power of public-private collaboration," said Nkosinathi Manzana, Executive Head: Group Real Estate at Standard Bank. "We are proud to partner with the Maharishi Invincibility Institute, an organisation with a remarkable history of transforming lives. This field is a tangible investment in the health, well-being, and future success of the next generation of leaders. The partnership not only demonstrates our dedication to supporting sporting excellence but also highlights the value we place on collaborations that have a positive impact.”

With a proven track record of training and successfully placing 25,595 formerly unemployed youth into high-quality jobs, in the process winning 35 local and international awards, MII continues to demonstrate that investing in human potential yields the greatest returns. Graduates have launched successful careers in finance, technology, banking, and management consulting, collectively expected to earn over R82.9 billion in their lifetimes.

"This is more than just grass; it’s a promise to our youth," said Dr. Taddy Blecher, CEO of MII. "For decades, this city has been known for its gold reserves and the birthplace of South African industry. Today, we are digging deep for something more valuable—the genius, creativity, and infinite potential within the city’s youth. The Field of Dreams will be a place where they build confidence, learn teamwork, and see that their futures are boundless. It is a symbol that pride is being restored to our city."

Located at a landmark site visible to the over 900,000 cars that pass daily on the M1 highway, the Field of Dreams is more than a sports facility. It is a powerful symbol of hope, renewal, and opportunity. It will serve as a green gateway to MII’s “Education Town” campus, where thousands of young people from surrounding townships and informal settlements access world-leading education in multiple fields daily to gain access to quality employment.

“This is that one place in the city where any young person with a dream, can come and study for education up to 10-hours per day, with all tuition, books, materials, technology, sports, and much more for a maximum of R200 per month. This is why we called it the ‘Field of Dreams’, said Dr Bacher.

The groundbreaking ceremony marks the official start of a new era for inner-city youth, where education, sport, and community vision unite to shape a brighter future for all.