HUMBLE HERO SHINES AT THE NATIONAL GOLDEN GAMES

By Lerato Digoamaje

• For 71-year-old Joseph Moseki Nkontlha, a member of the Phalafala Tsa Ga Moiloa Service Club, the Golden Games are not merely an athletic competition but a celebration of life and community engagement.
• He is part of the 1 700 senior citizens taking part in the 2024/25 National Active Ageing Programme taking place in Rustenburg, North West, from 18 – 20 February 2025.
• In this year’s games, Rre Nkontlha proudly fills dual roles: as a competitor in ball pass and kick and the conductor of the North West choral team.

As the vibrant camaraderie of the National Golden Games fills the Rustenburg Civic Centre, Joseph Moseki Nkontlha, a community leader from the North West Province, exemplifies the true essence of resilience and active ageing.

With deep-rooted pride in his achievements, he inspires not just his fellow competitors but also advocates for the inclusion and empowerment of older persons nationwide.

On the second day of the fun-filled National Active Ageing Programme taking place from 18 – 20 February 2025 in the North West, Nkontlha stands tall among his peers, ready to participate in the aerobic session designed specifically for older persons from all nine provinces.

For Rre Nkontlha, a member of the Phalafala Tsa Ga Moiloa Service Club, these games are not merely an athletic competition but a celebration of life and community engagement.

At the age of 71, this esteemed participant has been actively involved in the National Golden Games since 2013.

His journey began humbly, driven by a desire for physical activity and social interaction. “I always had a passion for being active,” Rre Nkontlha recalls, his eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. “When I joined the service club, it was like discovering a new part of myself.”

His journey from local service points to the provincial stage is nothing short of inspirational.

Nkontlha began his athletic career competing in ball pass and kick events, quickly progressing through selections that led him to the district games and ultimately the provincial games.

“This journey molded me,” he says, reflecting on his experiences. “Every stage brought me closer to my community and my purpose.”

In this year’s games, Rre Nkontlha proudly fills dual roles: as a competitor in ball pass and kick and the conductor of the North West choral team.

Despite his team being unable to compete due to inclement weather, his spirit remains unshaken.

“Even if the weather doesn’t cooperate, I am proud to be here, representing my province and connecting with our counterparts from other provinces,” he asserts, embodying the resilience of his generation.

Mr Conductor

His noteworthy experience as the first-ever black conductor in the choral music is a point of pride.

“Being called ‘Mr Conductor’ was a transformative moment for me,” he lightly shares, beaming.

As he leads the choral team, he fosters a sense of togetherness and unity among his community of elderly members, proving that leadership knows no age limits.

Rre Nkontlha believes that the National Golden Games offer more than just physical benefits. “These games are about connection, joy, and community,” he explains.

“I’ve seen chronic illnesses decline in me and others simply by being active and engaged. It’s not just exercise; it’s a lifeline.”

He urges other older persons to join service clubs, advocating for life-changing engagement that transcends monetary rewards. “It’s about the wellbeing of the soul,” he stresses.

His dedication has earned him the respect of both peers and staff, who affectionately refer to him as their very own father.

As the chairperson of the Phalafala Tsa Ga Moiloa Service Club, Rre Nkontlha champions active ageing initiatives that empower the elderly. “In our club, we’re a family,” he emphasises. “We support each other, and together we uplift our community.”

Rre Nkontlha suggests that more elderly people should join service clubs and participate in these games for longevity and healthy lifestyle.

As the festivities continue at the Rustenburg Civic Centre, Rre Nkontlha stands as a beacon of hope and resilience.

His story is a powerful reminder that age is merely a number and that every person has the potential to contribute meaningfully to society.

The National Golden Games not only celebrate athleticism but also honour the vibrant lives and stories of older citizens like Rre Nkontlha, showcasing their strength, courage, and unwavering spirit.

In a world that often overlooks the contributions of its elderly population, Rre Nkontlha’s journey exemplifies the transformative power of community, resilience, and active ageing.

As the National Golden Games continue, they serve as a platform not just for competition but for fostering connection and inspiring future generations.

As Rre Nkontlha articulates so poignantly: “In these moments, we find not just athletic achievement, but the essence of living fully, joyfully, and together.”