Sport Development Program Launched in Lesedi

Local Olympiad Leads Launch of Sports Development Program in Ratanda

Ratanda township was host to a groundbreaking sports development initiative unveiled on Tuesday (November 25), bringing opportunity to aspiring coaches and sport administrators through a collaborative effort between Vopak WeConnect Foundation, TDAY Foundation, and Khanya Lesedi Sports School Of Specialization (SoS).

The event, titled “Uniting a Community Through Sports Development,” was graced by prominent dignitaries including Deputy Minister of Sports Arts Honourable Peace Mabe and Lesedi Local Municipality Executive Mayor Cllr Mluleki Nkosi.

The launch celebrated the potential of Ratanda’s young athletes and aimed to provide comprehensive support for sports coaching and personal development.

Khanya Lesedi School of Specialization lauched

Olympic Silver medalist Khotso Mokoena, a proud son of Ratanda, played a pivotal role in the initiative.

The program is designed to equip local coaches and athletes with critical skills in sports coaching, entrepreneurship, and personal development, offering a pathway to success beyond athletic pursuits.

“We are also assisting the coaches and athletics to develop further. Not only to become champions in the field and also in life,” Mokena explained.

Mokoena mentioned that South Africa is working on its bid to host the 2036 Olympic Games so it is important to begin developing the talent needed to represent the country well when the time comes.

“We need to brew Olympians that come from this community,” he emphasized.

The Tday Foundation, a subsidiary foundation founded by Yasdi and led by Mokoena, focuses on physical sports development. Their commitment involves providing specialized training and mentorship to enhance coaches’ capabilities and nurture young athletes’ potential.

Ratanda’s sporting community has already demonstrated remarkable talent, with local teams competing internationally in 2023 and achieving success at the Motsepe Tournament. This new program aims to build on that foundation, offering sustainability and long-term development support.

The launch was a festive occasion, featuring marching bands from Khanya Lesedi SOS and displays of sporting talent that showcased the community’s vibrant spirit and potential.

Vopak South Africa, represented by Pretty Kekana, emphasized their commitment to community development, ensuring continued support for the sports infrastructure and personal growth of Ratanda’s youth.

Through the Vopak WeConnect Foundation, the organisation has made a positive impact in the lives of young people in the Lesedi Local region.

We Connect launched to help kids thrive in school

Mokoena thanked Vopak for their commitment and believing in the talent from the Ratanda community.

As Mayor Nkosi, himself an alumnus of Khanya Lesedi, noted, this initiative represents a significant step forward in empowering local talent and creating opportunities for young athletes and coaches alike.