By: Lonwabo Mtyeku | Pictures: Supplied
Seen Here: Dean Sahabodien, winner of the “Gooner with a Good Heart” initiative by Betway South Africa, celebrates being awarded an all-expenses-paid trip to London to watch Arsenal Football Club play live at the iconic Emirates Stadium. Photo Credit: Supplied.
A passionate South African supporter of Arsenal Football Club has been rewarded with a once-in-a-lifetime football experience after being recognised for his remarkable contributions to his community.
Betway South Africa has announced Dean Sahabodien as the winner of its purpose-driven campaign, “The Gooner with a Good Heart,” an initiative designed to honour an Arsenal supporter whose love for the club is matched by meaningful acts of kindness and service to others.
The award includes an all-expenses-paid trip to London, where Sahabodien will watch Arsenal play live at the world-famous Emirates Stadium, experiencing the electric matchday atmosphere alongside thousands of devoted fans.
A Community Champion
Sahabodien, a respected local mechanic, has earned admiration within his community for his generosity and unwavering commitment to helping others. Known for never turning away someone in need, he regularly stops to assist stranded motorists, responds to emergency calls for help at all hours, and often uses his own resources to support people facing difficult circumstances.
Despite balancing the demands of work and family life, his dedication to uplifting others has made him a trusted figure in the neighbourhood.
Family members describe him as someone whose life is defined by compassion — a person deeply devoted to his community, his profession, charitable giving, and his lifelong passion for Arsenal.
Hundreds of Inspiring Submissions
The “Gooner with a Good Heart” initiative attracted hundreds of submissions from across South Africa, each telling powerful stories about supporters who go above and beyond to make a difference.
Sahabodien ultimately stood out for the authenticity of his actions and the clear impact he has had on the people around him.
The campaign reflects Betway’s belief that football extends far beyond the pitch and can serve as a platform for recognising everyday heroes whose values embody the spirit of the sport.
A Dream Trip to London
As part of the prize, Sahabodien will travel to London where he will watch Arsenal compete live at the Emirates Stadium — a dream moment for many lifelong supporters.
In addition to the matchday experience, the trip will include exclusive behind-the-scenes opportunities and the chance to connect with fellow fans from around the world.
Celebrating the Power of Football
Commenting on the initiative, Mark Rowles, Head of Sponsorship at Betway South Africa, said the campaign highlights the extraordinary impact ordinary people can have in their communities.
“‘The Gooner with a Good Heart’ is a campaign that showcases the incredible stories of ordinary South Africans doing extraordinary work,” Rowles said.
“We are proud to award Dean Sahabodien with this experience of a lifetime and to celebrate his contribution to his community. Football is about unity, passion and togetherness, and this initiative brings those values to life in a meaningful way.”
More Than a Game
The initiative demonstrates how sport can inspire positive social change while strengthening connections between clubs, fans and communities.
Supporters can follow Sahabodien’s journey and behind-the-scenes moments from his London adventure through Betway’s social media platforms, where highlights of his trip and his matchday experience will be shared.
For Sahabodien, the reward represents more than just a football trip — it is recognition of the kindness and generosity that have made him a hero to the people around him.
