Itumeleng Khune seems to be excited about this next phase of his life and there's good reason for that. He is stepping into spaces not many footballers dare to.
On Wednesday evening, at an event held in Sandton, Johannesburg, it was confirmed that Khune has partnered with betting company Top Bet. Not as a brand ambassador – which is what most of the ex-professional players are for some of the corporate companies – but as a shareholder.
READ: New Partnership Announced For Khune
The same way he made an impact as a Kaizer Chiefs goalkeeper for a long time, Khune wants to take that into the boardroom and help make a difference in the lives of the same South Africans he touched whenever he donned the Amakhosi or Bafana Bafana jersey.
"How the partnership with Top Bet came up was that I met up with my mentor Mr Phumelo and that made me meet with their business associate, which then introduced us to Aisling (o'Connor). That's how we got to collaborate. But again, I should emphasize that I am not a brand ambassador for the brand, but I am the owner and I am happy and excited and I am looking forward to making a difference in our communities," Khune, who has not officially retired, told media after the announcement was made.
"I've got shares in the business. I know that most South African brands that approach the players and celebrities approach them for an ambassador role. With me, it's different. We need to start teaching footballers and all other businessmen and women out there that there are bigger opportunities out there when you meet the right people, sit down with them and you have a talk around the boardroom table."
Of course, this is a whole new world for Khune and there is a lot that he still needs to learn about the business of betting. But he is ready to get stuck in.
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"I am still learning a lot about the business and I can say that I have learnt a lot so far. It's not a short-term business. There is still a long way to go and I will still learn more. There are opportunities out there from everyone. If you want to get involved in any business, you can. Nothing stops you. But you need to decide what exactly it is you want for yourself in the future."
By Tshepang Mailwane
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