ABOUT BEN

Building opportunity, one bicycle at a time.

The Bicycling Empowerment Network (BEN) is a South African non-profit using bicycles as a tool to create opportunity, strengthen communities, promote safety, and empower people through greater mobility, independence, and skills development.

Since 2002, we have distributed more than 47,500 bicycles, trained 365 mechanics, and taught over 12,400 people to cycle safely. Our work focuses on making bicycles more accessible while ensuring people have the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence to make the most of them.

We provide affordable and donated bicycles to individuals and communities, particularly those who face barriers to affordable and reliable transport. Through mechanic training and hands-on learning, we equip people with the skills to maintain and repair their own bikes, helping keep bicycles safe, functional, and on the road.

We promote cycling safety through education and training for individuals, schools, and communities, while advocating for safer and more accessible cycling environments.

We get bicycles to people, teach them to keep riding, and push for roads that are safe to ride on.

We believe in reuse before replacement. We repair bicycles that might otherwise go to waste, and put them back on the road for people who need affordable transport.

Volunteer

Our Mission

We promote the social and economic empowerment of individuals through the use of bicycles.

Our values

  • Empowerment

    We don't simply provide bicycles. We create the skills, resources and opportunities people need to use bicycles as tools for mobility, livelihoods and economic opportunity.

  • Access

    Everyone should be able to reach affordable, safe and practical mobility.


  • COMMUNITY

    We work alongside communities, valuing local knowledge, strengthening community leadership and fostering a sense of ownership.

  • Sustainability

    We support lasting social, economic and environmental solutions through cycling and more sustainable mobility.