Powering Education through Mutual Support

As we reflect on the first half of the year, one standout story embodies the spirit of what makes PPS truly unique, is the Calling Cape Town Extreme triathlon that several staff took on with determination, teamwork and heart. By partnering with Calling Cape Town, not only did we financially back the event, but assisted in creating a platform for our people to live out one of our most powerful values: mutuality.

The event was held in support of Calling Education, a non-profit organisation founded in 2016 to provide high-quality education to learners from low-income communities. With an innovative model focused on affordability and excellence, Calling Education is proving that world-class schooling can and should be accessible to all.

“Calling Education has shown that innovative thinking and strong partnerships can create remarkable opportunities for young South Africans,” says Werner Cloete, CEO of Calling Academy. “Our goal has always been to provide world-class education while keeping fees affordable, and the success of our three campuses is proof that this model works.”

From a single school serving 60 learners, Calling Education has grown to three campuses with over 600 students and 45 staff members. Their model delivers quality education at an annual fee of just R7,000, removing financial barriers for families and setting a new benchmark for low-fee independent schooling in South Africa.

The Extreme Triathlon: More Than a Race

The Calling Cape Town Extreme Challenge, held on 9 March 2025, brought together PPS Investments staff as participants and volunteers. The gruelling event included an 8 km Robben Island swim, a 109 km cycle, and a 50 km trail run across Cape Town’s iconic peaks. The true achievement lay in the funds raised, which will make a meaningfully contribution toward Calling Education.

“At PPS Investments, we recognise that education is the foundation of a successful future,” says Shaun Ruiters, CEO of PPS Investments. “By supporting Calling Education, we are investing in the next generation of leaders, ensuring that young South Africans, regardless of their background, have access to the opportunities they deserve.”

Mutuality in Motion

What unfolded on race day was more than a test of endurance, it was a demonstration of mutual support. Employees trained together, cheered each other on, and celebrated each milestone as a shared victory. For many, it was an experience of deep personal growth. For all, it was a chance to live out the values that define PPS.

We always talk about mutuality as a founding principle, however, when you see colleagues pushing themselves for a greater cause, supporting one another through physical and emotional highs and lows, that’s when you realise mutuality is more than a concept. It’s who we are.”

What the athletes had to say?

“As one of the athletes that competed in the extreme triathlon, it was extremely exhausting and challenging. However, the struggles I faced in completing the 3 peaks, is only but a fraction of what the targeted scholars goes through daily. The Calling Academy school has truly made a change in these scholar’s lives. I bared witness to this when I was surprised with a hand-written letter from the students reflecting their extreme sense of gratitude towards us, at the celebration evening after. I sat down with young extremely well-mannered scholars and can testify that the goals they have set for themselves are second to none. I can certainly say, without a doubt, that these young men, inspired me to be the best I can be, which will enable me to pay it forward to the next generation. For that I will be forever grateful." – Ernest Losper

“I took on this challenge with one goal: to make a positive impact on the lives of the children supported by Calling Education (#VirrieKinders). But what I didn't expect was how deeply it would change me. The resilience, determination and hope of all the athletes participating in the event became my motivation. It fuelled me to believe that we can all rise above our limits, together. I'm looking forward to Calling Cape Town 2026." – Kobus Viljoen

“The challenge provided me with an opportunity to do what I love (trail running) while making a positive impact on the children supported by Calling Education, which is reshaping the South African education system. The Three Peaks challenge is one of the hardest things I’ve ever done, and there were a couple of times when I felt like giving up. The support from other athletes fuelled me to keep going until the finish line. The camaraderie and passion for education made Calling Cape Town a memorable experience. I look forward to participating in future Calling Cape Town events.” - Ntuthuko Nxumalo

A Legacy of Purpose

Initiatives like Calling Education and EduFund are not just corporate social responsibility efforts, they are strategic expressions of our mutuality mindset. They reflect our commitment to the next generation of graduate professionals and our belief that success is better, shared.

Click here to read more about this incredible organisation and find out how you can make a difference.