The event was initiated by Geleza Empowerment Programme (GEP), a non-profit organisation (NGO) that aims to provide personal and career development skills to children and the youth between the ages of 12 and 23. The programme strives to enhance the skills that the mentees acquire in their normal schooling curricula.

GEP also works with mentors who have expertise in a number of fields such as rugby, athletics, soccer, motivation and other skills. The 300 learners competed in five teams. Each team comprised of two captains, one boy and one girl. Games included wheelbarrow and three-legged racing and sack jumping.

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After the games GEP gave a motivational talk where learners were able to share their challenges and what they learned from the activities on the day. Mantsha Maponya, CEO of the NPO, said she is happy that they managed to impact the learners. “The activities taught the mentees skills such as teamwork, communication, participation and the importance of physical activity.

“We will return to the school every term to further equip them to become leaders and changemakers in their communities,” explained Maponya. The school principal, Donald Mboweni, applauded GEP for its initiative and the work they are doing with the learners.