From the couch to the streets, Alex residents hit the ground running
Saturday’s breakfast fun run was more than a 5km jog; it was an opportunity for people to reclaim their health, unite, and build stronger community ties.
Before the sun rose over Alexandra, a crowd of determined runners gathered at Eastbank Avenue for the breakfast fun run on Saturday.
The initiative, presented by IrunWithThemba and Siga Culinary, was led by organiser Themba Bila, flipping the script on township health and isolation. Bila said the mission was to move people from the couch to the streets, reconnecting a community that has been sitting still for too long.
The 5km run fostered unity, giving some a chance to reclaim their health, one kilometre at a time. Beyond fitness, Bila said the run was about reconnecting families, and reminding Alexandra that progress starts with showing up.
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“People are sitting at home, doing nothing. Some have illnesses, like high blood pressure. They are going through a lot. So, we are trying to move those people, so they can come and enjoy.”
It is not a secret that public health struggles intersect with economic hardship in Alexandra, with many residents unable to afford gym membership fees and personal trainers. The initiative offered residents a free opportunity to become part of a community-led movement that is growing with every step.
Beyond fitness, Bila’s vision includes family bonding and local pride. “We want people to spend time with their families. We’re saying to the community: ‘Let’s come together and stand together’. We can do more together, than as individuals.”
One of the participants, Zanothando Bowes, said the initiative offers people a reprieve from the challenges associated with living in Alexandra.
@caxtonjoburgnorth Early morning strides and big community vibes as Alexandra’s residents take on the 5km Fun Run. Video: Itumeleng Maloka #Localnews #caxtonlocalmedia #trendingvideo #johannesburg #News #SA #RUN #Alex
♬ original sound – Caxton Joburg North – Caxton Joburg North
“The environment we are in closes channels for us. People get depressed and start abusing substances. It is better to do something like this to keep the positive energy.”
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Reflecting on the run, another participant, Mcendisi Mbedzi, added: “It was a good journey. When you get to the steep hill, you could feel it was asking a lot of you, but all in all, I am glad I was here.”
Bila and his team also connect interested beginners to Alexandra’s running clubs, including Run Alex, Tsutsumani, and Alexandra, ensuring that the momentum does not end at the finish line.
Looking ahead, Bila said he hopes for more growth and community support.
“We want to do much more. We do running and tourism, teaching people about where we grew up. We are sharing stories.”
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