LIMPOPO – Skontiri Fun Walk successfully hosted its 10km fun walk in Lulekani on Friday, March 21, bringing together a diverse group of participants in a bid to promote fitness and support a crucial social cause.

The initiative, which began in 2024, was founded by health enthusiasts Vusi Mkanzi and Jabu Mhlongo to raise donations for sanitary pads to help young girls who miss school due to a lack of access to these essential items.

“I am a health enthusiast. I have always given back to the community through free gym sessions on weekdays together with Jabu Mhlongo,” said Mkanzi.

“We started this initiative last year after realising that not every household can afford to buy their daughters sanitary pads. Girls miss classes when it is that time of the month all because they do not have sanitary pads. We saw it fit to try and raise donations,” he explained.

Moreover, the organisers plan to host the event every three months to continue their efforts. Mkanzi highlighted the need for partnerships and sponsorships to enhance future walks.

“We had no sponsorship at all, but we intend to start knocking on doors in the future,” he said.

Despite limited resources, including a lack of sponsors for water stations, the event was a success.

“For the first time, we had elderly people joining us. Having no sponsors meant we had limited resources such as water points, but we had to work with what we had,” Mkanzi added.

The turnout was impressive with over 70 to 80 participants, especially given the short notice.

“We will have another 10km walk on one of the April holidays. Anyone is welcomed to join us including sponsors,” he concluded.

Meanwhile, participants also shared their enthusiasm for the event. Collen Mkhonto expressed his admiration for the cause.

“What inspired me to participate in the fun walk was the donation of pads to benefit the community. Secondly, we witnessed our parents participating in the campaign. It was fantastic to see folks over 60 years old participating in the 10km walk, which is great for their health,” he said.

Another participant, Nyeleti Mthombeni, who has taken part in similar charity events, praised the initiative. “It was not my first time participating in a charity and fun walk event. We had a great time,” she said.

Mthombeni deeply resonated with the purpose of the event as a woman. “This is a great initiative. Being a woman, I understand the stress that comes with not having sanitary pads. It is a win-win situation for me because I donate while keeping fit, having fun, and meeting new people. I am looking forward to their April event,” she added.