Sibusiso Thusi (second from the right in main photo), who works in Human Resources Services at BMW Group Plant Rosslyn, is the recipient of the Vera-und-Volker-Doppelfeld Award, which fosters commitment among young people. The award ceremony, held in Munich, Germany, honoured employees worldwide who engage as volunteers by dedicating their time and expertise to social projects.

He helps schoolchildren discover their talents and realise their professional dreams. As a mentor with the “Young Aspiring Thinkers” initiative, Sibusiso works with public schools in economically disadvantaged areas to help children make up learning deficits, prepare them for internships and share insights into the world of work.

The four winners are actively involved with causes in South Africa, Germany and Bolivia. With passion and dedication, they empower the families of children with cancer, support disadvantaged youth, provide aid to street children and help individuals struggling with addiction by presenting them with new opportunities. Each winner received prize money of 10 000 Euros (± R196 400) for their project.

“The BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility is truly inspiring. It highlights the profound impact individual dedication can have and shows how commitment to others strengthens the entire community. Our associates are driving change by developing practical solutions to social problems. Their projects create a positive impact and serve as an invitation to everyone to step up and get involved,” says Ilka Horstmeier, Member of the Board of Management of BMW AG, responsible for People and Real Estate, and Labour Relations, who is also a patron of the award.

The BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility has been highly regarded within the company for many years, achieving an impact that extends far beyond simply recognising the individuals involved. Around 100 associates worldwide submitted entries for the BMW Group Award for Social Responsibility this year.

Behind each winning project is a team of dedicated helpers from the organisations themselves, who also receive recognition and appreciation through the award. Volunteers find their involvement in social and environmental causes deeply enriching, motivated by the desire to give back to the community. One of the winners described the experience of volunteering as grounding and inspiring gratitude.