About Spoudazo

Spoudazo Enterprises Trust is a registered Public Benefit Organization in Bloemfontein, South Africa (PBO number: 930037272), with tax exemption granted by the SARS Income Tax Exemption Unit in Hatfield, Pretoria.

The purpose of the trust is to improve the well-being of the poor and vulnerable through Welfare and Humanitarian support, Health Care, Land and Housing initiatives, and Education and Development services. Spoudazo Enterprises runs and supports social development projects that bring hope and opportunities to vulnerable and disadvantaged individuals and communities.

B. Meaning of the Name Spoudazo (σπουδάζω, spoo dad zo)

Derived from the Greek word found in Galatians 2:10, Spoudazo means to be diligent, eager, and zealous in action. It reflects a spirit of recognizing a need and responding with thoughtful, purposeful effort. In essence, it captures the journey from intention to action and follow-through, combining planning, effort, and meaningful impact.

History of Spoudazo

The origins of the organization date back to 2004, when Elbie Louw founded Spoudazo. Initially established as a closed corporation focused on hosting events to raise funds for community projects, it was later converted into a trust, as a recognized public benefit organization. Spoudazo was born out of Elbie’s passion for supporting the poor and vulnerable, her keen ability to identify needs, and her entrepreneurial and leadership skills to turn vision into action.

Spoudazo’s Mission

Our desire is to serve the poor and the needy in these areas by building the bridge between business and community and to use the registered public benefit organization, Spoudazo Enterprises Trust, as the platform for this important integration.

Spoudazo’s SED Projects

Township Vegetable Tunnel Project
Supports food security for households while creating sustainable economic opportunities within the community.

Beudene Daycare for disabled
Located in Bloemfontein, the daycare serves people of all ages and disabilities, fostering independence, social skills, and integration to help participants become active members of the broader community.

Get Real: Entrepreneurial Development Programme
This programme offers orphaned young girls an opportunity to be equipped with skills and knowledge to become not only great entrepreneurs, but also well balanced real women in whatever career they choose to follow.

Message of Hope Project
Raises funds to distribute the book Jesus Christ is Not a Joke – He is Your Answer, Your Hope, Your Freedom, and Your Life within communities, spreading hope and inspiration.

Face behind Spoudazo

Elbie Louw holds a B. Comm degree and has built her career across bookkeeping, marketing, and entrepreneurship. In 2004, inspired by a passion to assist the poor and vulnerable and guided by her ability to recognize community needs, she founded Spoudazo. What began as a closed corporation hosting fundraising events was converted into a trust in 2006, providing the structure to operate as a registered Public Benefit Organization.

Elbie’s vision is to bridge business and community, using Spoudazo Enterprises to foster empowerment, collaboration, and lasting positive change. She pursues this mission alongside her career as a real estate agent at RealNet Properties Bloemfontein, where her experience and exposure fit perfectly to establish connections on every level, inspired by heart and expertise.

Trustees

The Trust is governed by four trustees, including the founder, all of whom have accepted fiduciary responsibility in accordance with the Trust Property Control Act, 1988 (Act No. 57 of 1988). The trustees are:

  • Mr. J.A. Volsteedt: A respected and well-known retired school principal in South Africa, he has dedicated his life to advancing the education and well-being of children, including those from underprivileged backgrounds. With extensive experience in education, leadership, and sport, he continues to inspire and support initiatives that empower young people and strengthen communities.

  • Ms Jana Britz: A Chartered Accountant and the Hospital Manager at CityMed Day Hospital and CityMed Rehabilitation Hospital. Jana’s passion for making a difference in the lives of the underprivileged aligns perfectly with our mission at Spoudazo. Jana, who believes in the power of small acts, shares her knowledge, expertise, and valuable time with Spoudazo.

  • Ms Kele Mogorosi-Ramashala: No stranger to our organization; having previously served as an intern at Spoudazo Enterprises many years ago, she now brings a wealth of experience and dedication to our mission. Kele holds a BA degree in Communication Science from the University of South Africa. She is a discerning, idealistic, and meticulous leader, who approaches the world with conscious determination to drive social change. Kele has positively impacted young professionals under her leadership and and has been a valuable addition to collaborative teams.

  • Elbie Louw:Elbie Louw holds a B.Com degree and began her career in bookkeeping before exploring marketing and entrepreneurship. She founded Spoudazoto create opportunities that make a meaningful difference in the lives of vulnerable community members. Alongside this, she is a dedicated Non-Principal Property Practitioner, recognized for her business acumen, entrepreneurial experience, and heartfelt approach to helping clients buy and sell properties.