For some in the community, staying active is no longer just about physical fitness, it has become a crucial opportunity to network, socialise, and build meaningful connections.

That was clearly evident at IrunWithThemba’s end-of-month community run, held on May 30 at Kwabhekilanga Sports Ground.

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The event brought together runners of different ages and abilities in a space that prioritised connection as much as exercise. Aerobics instructor Teresa Maenetja said the gathering was far more than a just a workout session. “When it comes to running, it is a gathering for me to socialise, to network, and meet with people. It also benefits me. It is quite a great experience.”

Maenetja emphasised the multiple layers of value that running with the group offers. “Running is good because you network. It is fun, it is social, and it is also beneficial for one’s health and fitness.”
This focus on connection has become a defining feature of IrunWithThemba. Rather than isolated training, the organisation creates a welcoming environment, where participants build relationships across age groups. “We build a family; we don’t do friendships. Hence everybody, in different age groups, [feels] welcomed.”

Coach Nkululeko Mthimkulu highlighted how running together on the track, as opposed to on the streets, strengthened this community bond. “If we are together, doing the same things together, and at the same place, they get that form. It was so wonderful.”

He noted that the Saturday setting motivated participants to push through challenges and complete the run, with no one left behind. He further emphasised how the shared experience fostered encouragement and mutual support that could turn regular runners into a tight-knit support system for first time runners.

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This strong sense of belonging has helped IrunWithThemba grow beyond a simple running club into a family. The organisation’s approach has drawn support from partners, such as the Ndaa Foundation, which provided refreshments during the recent event. “All of us are working for the community,” Ndaa Foundation chairperson Kenny Hlaise said. “Ndaa Foundation and IrunWithThemba have the same objectives of working with the community. As I deal with school children, IrunWithThemba has been dealing with adults in the community.”

He said it was this common purpose that eventually birthed their partnership with IrunWithThemba.

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