Empowering Alexandra’s youth, one mile at a time

Thandy Matalaila runs not just for herself but to uplift an entire community.
Her latest initiative, running the Cape Town Marathon for the benefit of the Run Alex Athletics Club, highlights her passion for making a difference in Alexandra, a township that holds special meaning for her.

Having first encountered Alexandra during a school trip as a child, Matalaila later dedicated much of her charity work to the community, addressing social injustices that had long troubled her. Through her Thandokazi Foundation, she has spearheaded various initiatives to empower youth and the underprivileged. Among these, her 27 Dresses project, which donates matric farewell dresses to deserving learners, gained widespread recognition.

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But her passion for helping Alexandra’s young athletes was sparked when she noticed something alarming during a visit to the Kwabhekilanga Sports Grounds. “I saw kids running barefoot and it hit me hard,” Matalaila recalled. Motivated to make a tangible difference, she decided to run the Cape Town Marathon to raise funds for the athletes at Run Alex Athletics Club, ensuring they have the proper gear and apparel needed to train and compete.

“Running the marathon was a personal challenge but it was nothing compared to what these kids face without the right shoes or equipment. It’s not just about the physical benefits – getting proper gear will give them confidence and motivate them to push harder.”

Matalaila’s efforts extend beyond simply providing apparel. She is deeply committed to educating these young athletes about the importance of balanced nutrition and overall wellness, empowering them to take care of their bodies on and off the field. Her vision is to see them improve their performance and grow as confident, well-rounded individuals.

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Her drive to support youth development and education aligns perfectly with her long-term goals. “I want to groom professional athletes, teach them the business side of sports, and help them carry themselves as brands.” Ultimately, she hopes to open a wellness centre that will cater to both physical and emotional well-being.

For Matalaila, the journey is about more than running. It’s about giving back, creating opportunities, and inspiring the next generation. “If you have old running shoes, bring them to our handover at the Hollywood Bets 10km race in November. It’s not just financial donations we need, sometimes, the smallest gesture can make the biggest difference.”

Through her foundation and actions, she continues to prove that with determination and heart, it’s possible to empower communities and change lives – one step at a time.

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