Bicycles donated to Beautiful Kidz Ovitoto centre 

17 June 2025 

On 14 June, Nedbank Namibia successfully handed over 40 bicycles to Beautiful Kidz, a Namibian non-profit organisation dedicated to uplifting vulnerable children and families. This donation was made possible through funds raised during the 2024 Nedbank Desert Dash, where participants and supporters came together to generate N$40,000 for the cause.

Beautiful Kidz non-profit organisation operates from community centers in Windhoek and Ovitoto, serving hundreds of children with programs like pre primary schooling, afternoon tutoring, youth clubs, and holiday camps. They also offer vital community outreach and parenting support, along with initiatives like needlework training to empower local women. With a Christian foundation, Beautiful Kidz brings hope and opportunity to some of Namibia’s most disadvantaged communities.

The Nedbank Desert Dash significantly bolstered Beautiful Kidz mission by providing a platform to raise substantial funds and increase awareness for their cause. Through participation in the 2024 event, the organisation raised N$40,000, which was used to purchase and distribute 40 bicycles to their Ovitoto center.

Nedbank Namibia Okahandja Branch Manager, Desire Suze-Salomo, who attended the handover ceremony said:

‘The Nedbank Desert Dash is more than just a race, it’s a powerful platform for charities to raise both awareness and funds. By participating in this event, organisations like Beautiful Kidz can connect with new supporters and potential sponsors, making a tangible impact in their communities. At Nedbank, we believe in being money experts who do good, and this ethos drives our commitment to supporting initiatives that uplift and empower those we serve.’

Also speaking at the handover ceremony was the Board Chairman of Beautiful Kidz Organisation, Andrew Nicholson, who said:

‘This event has brought our community closer together, rallying around our riders and deepening engagement with our generous donors. Through this support, we've been able to provide bicycles to the children who will no doubt ride thousands of kilometers, perhaps even preparing for the Nedbank Desert Dash 2040 when they come of age.’

Nicholson added: ‘I are incredibly proud of what the team have  accomplished and excited about the road ahead.  We look forward to doing it again.’

Nedbank Namibia Chief Commercial Officer, JG van Graan, added on the Importance of the Nedbank Desert Dash:

‘The Nedbank Desert Dash is a cornerstone event for us, embodying our commitment to community engagement and support. It not only challenges participants physically but also unites them for a greater cause. The funds and awareness raised through this event have a lasting impact on the communities we serve, as seen with Beautiful Kidz. The Nedbank Desert Dash platform has become increasingly influential in its significance for fundraising potential and we have no doubt that the 2025 edition will again amplify the sheer momentum that we have seen in recent years.’

The 2025 Nedbank Desert Dash will take place on 5-6 December 2025. This iconic event will once again challenge cyclists to conquer the Namib Desert, covering 401 km from Windhoek to Swakopmund.

Entries in the race opened on 2 June and will close on 30 September. Interested cyclists should visit desertdashnamibia.com for more information.