Firefighters from across South Africa came together at the SAESI 2025 Conference & Expo in Boksburg on November 27 and 28.

Among the participants in the physical challenge events was Enie Manzini, section manager in the public information, education, and relations (PIER) division at Benoni Central Fire Station. She completed the challenge in 4:57.

Manzini first competed in 2014 at the Centrum Guardian Challenge, where firefighters went head-to-head with celebrities.

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With 22 years of service, she has become a strong advocate for fitness, resilience, and women’s empowerment in the firefighting profession.

Even though she is no longer in active operations, Manzini stressed that staying fit is non-negotiable.

“Our job is demanding. As firefighters, especially as women, we have to stay fit. Even if you’re not on operations, you might be needed in an operational environment at any time,” she explained.

Her journey through firefighter challenge competitions has been far from easy. In November 2022, she fell down a staircase and unknowingly fractured her fibula. Despite the injury, she continued training, running, and competing.

“It was only in February 2023 that the fracture was discovered. Later that year, while running, I fell again and sustained a mid-shaft metacarpal fracture, an injury that prevented me from completing the challenge.

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“I couldn’t hoist, and I couldn’t finish the race. It was difficult, but I continued to use the challenge as motivation,” she recalled.

In 2024, she skipped the competition to allow her hand to heal. This year, the 2025 SAESI Challenge reignited her confidence and determination.

“This challenge brought back my confidence. I love it, and I’m still going to compete. I’m going to carry on and stay fit,” she said.

For Manzini, the competitions offer more than just physical conditioning.

“It helps me mentally. It keeps me focused and allows me to do my job properly without fatigue,” she said.
She also uses the platform to inspire other women in the fire services.

“I want to motivate more women to join these challenges. We really need greater female participation,” she added.

SAESI president Theresa Geldenhuys emphasised the importance of continued collaboration and excellence within the emergency services sector.

“The SAESI 2025 Conference & Expo represents our ongoing commitment to professional excellence.

“Bringing together fire and emergency service members from across the region allows us to share knowledge, enhance training standards, and showcase innovation.

“Our focus remains on improving service delivery, strengthening leadership, and ensuring our teams are equipped for the challenges ahead.”