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South African entrepreneur Zunaid Moti has unveiled the MotiMoves Pay It Forward Initiative, a R1 million education campaign that will help 100 students kickstart their tertiary studies in 2026. Each recipient will receive R10,000 paid directly to their institution to cover registration or tuition fees. Entries are now open nationwide until 16 January 2026.
WHAT HAPPENED
The Pay It Forward programme, launched on 20 October 2025, forms part of Moti’s broader MotiMoves youth empowerment platform. It aims to break down financial barriers that prevent capable students from accessing higher education.
“Education changes lives,” said Moti. “It transforms families and futures. This initiative is my way of helping those who have done the work to earn their place, but just need a little help to take the next step.”
He called on business leaders to follow suit: “Even R10,000 can help a young South African register and begin their journey. Empowerment begins with access to education.”
HOW TO APPLY: STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE
- Record a video: Create a 90-second video introducing yourself, your field of study, and why this opportunity matters.
- Post publicly: Upload it on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, LinkedIn, or X, tag @ZunaidMoti, and include #MotiMoves and #PayItForward.
- Email your documents: Send the following to education@zunaid-moti.co.za
- South African ID copy
- Proof of residence (your own or guardian’s)
- Preliminary or final matric results
- 2026 tertiary acceptance letter
- Deadline: Entries close 16 January 2026. Winners will be announced shortly thereafter.
Key Dates and Details
| Activity | Date / Detail |
| Applications open | 20 October 2025 |
| Deadline for submissions | 16 January 2026 |
| Amount per student | R10 000 |
| Total fund | R1 million |
| Eligible applicants | SA citizens 18+ accepted for 2026 tertiary study |
| Official site | motimoves.co.za |
COMMUNITY AND CORPORATE CHALLENGE
Moti has urged corporates and business leaders to join the campaign. He emphasized that collective action, even small contributions can change lives. “Talent exists everywhere; opportunity doesn’t. If each business helps one student, we’ll move a nation forward,” he said.
The initiative falls under Moti’s MotiMoves programme, which also supports entrepreneurship through mentorship, funding, and practical business training.
