Investec women's golf sponsorships

We've backed many women golfers on their rise to the top. We currently sponsor South African players Zethu Myeki, Nicole Garcia, Danielle du Toit, Ivanna Samu and the newest pro to the stable- Kaiyuree Moodley.

Investec sponsors Kaiyuree Moodley

The 2025 rookie is already making her mark

World-class partnerships raise the game

Behind every success story, there are unsung heroes.

The people, who support us, motivate and elevate us to do the extraordinary. We asked our four pros who has been the ultimate partner and supporter, crucial to their success. Find out who they chose and why.

Ivanna’s chosen person is her dad

Sacrifice is the foundation of success

WATCH IVANNA'S VIDEO ON ISTA

Ivanna Samu attributes her success in golf to her father, Danny Samu, whose unwavering support and sacrifices have been pivotal. Reflecting on her journey, she describes him as the “pillar” of their family, highlighting his dedication and hard work that enabled her to pursue golf. Ivanna admits choosing her father as her greatest supporter was challenging, as her whole family played significant roles. Yet, Danny's sacrifices stood out. He started his own business, enduring long hours and early mornings to financially support Ivanna and her brother in their golf pursuits. “He sacrificed his own hopes and dreams,” she reflects. “Without him, I wouldn’t have achieved what I have today.”

His commitment extended beyond finances. During Ivanna’s first tournament, the Western Province Open, they couldn’t afford flights and drove from Johannesburg, staying with relatives. Without funds for a caddy, Danny pushed her trolley himself. Disaster struck when he broke its wheel on the first hole. Despite the rigours of the 36-hole event, he carried her bag throughout, culminating in her victory, a cherished memory showcasing his resilience and love.

Initially, golf was not Ivanna’s passion; it was her chance to bond with her father and brother. But success with her first shot hooked her. The journey has been beset with challenges, including her father selling his golf clubs for her and her brother to continue playing. Ivanna’s mother also made sacrifices, leaving her job to transport them to tournaments. “If it wasn’t for my family, I wouldn’t be as confident to play the golf that I do,” admits Ivanna. Her fiancé, Liam, has been a pillar of emotional support, especially during her cancer battle amidst Covid, even sneaking into the hospital to be with her.

Danny’s resilience underpins his journey, from immigrating from Yugoslavia to South Africa, without speaking a word of English, to marrying Ivanna’s mother within 21 days of meeting. He built a united family while foregoing his sports aspirations, including a stint with the Orlando Pirates, to support his children’s dreams. “He’s been a hard worker, resilient, and a good idol,” Ivanna acknowledges.

To keep focus on the course, Ivanna credits mental training and family’s love. She draws strength from their support when challenges arise. Her heartfelt gratitude to her father resonates deeply: “Dad, thank you. You were hard on me seeing my potential, wanting me to be better. For that, I’m grateful. I love you.”

Danielle's chosen person is her mother

A love that saved her daughter from grip of depression

WATCH DANIELLE'S VIDEO HERE

Danielle shares how her mother, Charlotte, has been her greatest support and inspiration throughout her life. Raised by a single mother alongside her two younger sisters, Danielle describes Charlotte as the person she trusts most, someone who would sacrifice everything for her children. Despite the challenges they’ve faced, Charlotte taught her daughters the importance of faith, resilience, and love.

Charlotte’s faith played a critical role in helping Danielle navigate difficult times, including periods of depression, anxiety, and suicidal thoughts. It was Charlotte who encouraged her to find purpose again, even guiding her back to the golf course, which became a significant part of Danielle’s life.

Danielle explains that her faith in Jesus Christ drives her, but her motivation and love for her family keep her going. “It is my family who I play for, it is my family who I live for, and that to me is what love is. My mom taught me how to love.”

Charlotte’s influence extended beyond emotional support. As a university professor in econometrics, former board member of the Reserve Bank, and someone who has worked with the UN, her intelligence and perseverance were constant inspirations for Danielle.

When Danielle turned professional in golf last year, she shared a special moment with her mom. A cherished photo of them praying before her first professional event in South Africa, where she made the cut, symbolizes their bond.

Reflecting on her mother’s sacrifices, Danielle recalls her college graduation in the U.S. where she was given a golden stole meant to be gifted to the person who helped her most in her journey. When she finally returned home to celebrate her achievements, she gave it to her mother, who was moved to tears.

Danielle’s gratitude for her mother is immense. If she could write her a thank-you note, it would simply say: “Thank you, Mom, for loving me like Jesus loved us. Thank you for being that role model. Thank you for being the Jesus in our lives.”

Nicole’s chosen person is her husband

A pro partner on and off the course

Nicole Garcia identifies her husband, Grant Veenstra, as her most significant supporter in both her life and career. She acknowledges the challenges of balancing marriage with a sports career, emphasising Grant's unwavering support. Their relationship began during her time as an amateur golfer at university. They connected through a mutual coach, and Nicole initiated contact by wishing Grant luck before the 2012 British Open, sparking a relationship central to her success today.

Grant, eight years Nicole's senior, provides experience and maturity that benefit their relationship, especially since he understands the trials of a professional golfing career, having faced similar challenges himself. His past aspirations as a professional golfer reflect Nicole's journey, and he never lets golf's demands affect their relationship. However, Nicole acknowledges the difficulties of intertwining marriage with coaching, where the emotional blending of personal and professional stress can be intense. To prevent overwhelming him, Nicole seeks advice from other mentors in times of emotional upheaval as she strives to separate her marital life from golfing pressures.

Nicole says there is still a disparity between men's and women's golf in terms of travel. Men earn more and are therefore often able to travel with family, but women must go alone. This, she says, leads female golfers to form “substitute families” on tour. The absence of loved ones adds complexity to maintaining emotional health and relationships. Professional golf is mentally taxing, and Nicole admits relying on mental health professionals to manage emotional stress.

The unpredictable nature of golf often causes anxiety, and during these challenging periods, Grant's understanding is invaluable as he has shared similar experiences. His encouragement carries particular weight due to Nicole's trust in his judgement, knowing he would be honest if he ever felt she needed to quit.

Her husband’s background in coaching adds layers to their relationship as a mentor, but Nicole ensures she doesn’t overload him with emotional challenges. Although his support helps her navigate golf's mental hurdles, she also turns to family and friends for broader emotional backing. She acknowledges their unique dynamic, given their shared history in golf, and remains profoundly thankful for his dedication.

As he invests in his coaching ambitions, she vows to reciprocate the support he's provided her.

Zethu chose Ernie Els and Judy Katz, her “second mother” as her people

From township to fairway: A journey seldom travelled

Zethu’s golf journey began in 2009 when she joined the Ernie Els Foundation, a program supporting young players with equipment, tournament fees, coaching, and educational support. This help allowed her to pursue both her studies and passion for golf, something she’s deeply grateful for.

Though her interactions with Ernie Els were brief, his humility left a lasting impression. She fondly recalls moments when he would join young players for casual practice. “He’s Ernie Els, but he makes people feel very comfortable around him.”

The Ernie Els Foundation’s support was crucial, but Zethu’s journey was also shaped by the kindness of Judy Katz. They met in 2017 through Judy’s partner, who learned about Zethu’s struggles with accommodation during tournaments. After her partner passed away, Judy invited Zethu to stay with her permanently, providing her with a safe and nurturing environment.

For over two and a half years, Judy treated Zethu like a daughter, providing food, shelter, emotional support, and even buying her a car and GPS to ensure her independence. Though far from her family in East London, Judy became a second mother to her.

“She did everything for me. She was just like a mother to me. I’m thankful I met someone like her.” The emotional toll of being away from her biological mother was significant, especially when her mother’s health deteriorated. Zethu had to give up her dream of attending Q-school to care for her mother, choosing family over her career.

Zethu acknowledges the privilege of having others support her and recognizes the challenges young Black women from townships face in pursuing golf. The sport’s high costs, travel requirements, and expensive equipment make it nearly impossible for most.

Looking ahead, Zethu dreams of giving back by starting her own foundation. She wants to create opportunities for young girls from her community to pursue their dreams. “I believe if it wasn’t for the people that helped me, I would not be where I am.”

Her gratitude towards Ernie Els and Judy Katz is profound. To Ernie, she expresses thanks for the opportunities that laid the foundation for her career. To Judy, she offers heartfelt appreciation for providing her with a home, guidance, and unwavering support. “Even though I don’t live with her anymore, we still talk, and she still checks up on me. She just wants what’s best for me.”