From playful banter to a unique fundraiser, how everyday professionals are stepping into the ring to fight for education in South Africa.
Johannesburg, South Africa (12 August 2025) – Sometimes the best ideas start with the most unexpected conversations. In 2019, a light-hearted chat over a few beers between two friends turned into a lifechanging movement. Dominic Harris and a friend were debating who would win if they stepped into a boxing ring together?
Instead of leaving it as is, they shook on it. A real right! If the fight was going to happen, it would be done properly. Gloves, ring, and all. Most importantly this would raise money for charity.
A few months later, after serious training and even more serious planning, the Box Smart Foundation hosted its first-ever white-collar boxing fundraiser. Over 350 people showed up, and the event did not just meet its R50,000 fundraising goal, it doubled it. Bringing in R100,000 for education-focused charities.
Since that knockout debut, Box Smart has become a standout on Joburg’s events calendar. The concept is that everyday professionals swap their laptops for boxing gloves, step into the ring, and fight for education. And while the boxers get the adrenaline rush, the real winners are the children who benefit from the funds raised.
With a brief COVID break behind them, the Foundation has already raised R755,000 for organisations like Sithanda Upliftment Projects and Community-Assisting Schools.
This year promises to be the biggest yet, with not one but two major events at Katy’s Palace: the corporate-only Box and Dine on 29 August 2025, followed by the public fight night on 30 August 2025. And here is the twist, it’s not just about the boxing. Box Smart doubles as one of Joburg’s hottest parties, featuring a DJ line-up to rival any music festival. Guess it is safe to say this is one of the vibiest charity organisations.
So, whether you are there for the fight night entertainment, the dance floor vibes, or that warm feeling of making a difference, this is one event you do not want to miss.
At Box Smart, every punch counts. In and out of the ring. Don’t want to miss out on the action? Grab your tickets here.
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