On Sunday, April 23, 2023, twenty runners from Sports for Ubuntu, a sports club that promotes unity, diversity, and inclusivity among African diaspora sports enthusiasts and health enthusiasts, participated in the 2023 London Marathon. The runners, hailing from England, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, included seven female runners, all from minority backgrounds, who laced up their shoes to raise funds for the Mzimkhulu Trust and KDF International School in Uganda, two charities dedicated to education and youth empowerment.
The London Marathon, one of the six World Marathon Majors, is not only a premier event in the world of sports but also the largest annual fundraising event globally. With a focus on inclusivity and equity, Sports for Ubuntu is proud to have participated in this event, highlighting the importance of representation and inclusivity in sports.
“We are thrilled to have had the opportunity to participate in the London Marathon and contribute to raising funds for education and youth empowerment causes,” said Bulelwa Mfakadolo, the Founder of Sports for Ubuntu. “Our runners have demonstrated not only their athletic abilities but also their commitment to making a positive impact in the world.”
The runners raised £3000 so far for Umzimkhulu Trust and KDF International School, both of which are dedicated to improving the lives of children and youth in Africa through education and skills training. These charities align with the values and mission of Sports for Ubuntu, which seeks to harness the power of sports to bring people together and promote teamwork, inclusivity, and mutual support.
“We believe that sports have the power to bring people together and create a sense of community,” added Mfakadolo. “Through Sports for Ubuntu, we aim to promote a sense of unity and interconnectedness among African diaspora sports enthusiasts, as well as those who are interested in adopting a healthier lifestyle.”
Sports for Ubuntu was established with the core principle of promoting a sense of unity and interconnectedness among African diaspora sports enthusiasts, as well as those who are interested in adopting a healthier lifestyle. The organisation recognises the importance of sports in building strong, vibrant communities and seeks to harness this power to bring people together.
The word “Ubuntu” is derived from a Southern African philosophy that emphasises the importance of community, empathy, and compassion. The organisation has created a platform that not only celebrates athletic achievement but also promotes values such as teamwork, inclusivity, and mutual support. Sports for Ubuntu represents a community of individuals who share a passion and a commitment to building a better society around them through different endeavours to raise funds for causes that are aimed to tackle challenges with education, poverty and youth unemployment in Africa.
On Friday, April 21, Sports for Ubuntu hosted the London Marathon runners at South African High Commission, where a representative from the mission received a gift on behalf of the High Commissioner. The event served as an opportunity for the runners to celebrate their achievements and reflect on the impact they have made through their fundraising efforts.
Whether you are a seasoned athlete or a newcomer to the world of sports, Sports for Ubuntu welcomes individuals from all backgrounds and skill levels to join its community. With a focus on inclusivity, support, and camaraderie, the organisation strives to create an environment where everyone can thrive and achieve their full potential.
SportsforUbuntu would like to express their gratitude to Diaspora Marketing Solutions for their support in making the London Marathon experience possible for the 20 Sports for Ubuntu runners. Without their contribution, this incredible opportunity to raise funds for important causes in Africa would not have been possible. The organisation values the partnerships and collaborations that allow them to create a positive impact in the world, and they are thankful for Diaspora Marketing Solutions’ commitment to making a difference.
To get involved or learn more, interested parties can contact Bulelwa Mfakadolo at bulelwa@sportsforubuntu.com.
