MEMBERS OF THE DSD ATHLETICS CLUB SHARE HOW RUNNING IMPROVES THEIR LIVES

By Lorato Modisenyane

• Living active lives, including running, has helped workers in the social security sector cope with the daily stresses they deal with in their profession.
• Members of the Gauteng Department of Social Development’s athletics club have a single refrain – taking part in road races has positively impacted their physical fitness, mental well-being, and personal growth.
• Nursing assistant Hazel Puthaza said that participating in marathons has helped her a lot with her mental health: “I always feel positive, energetic, and ready for anything.”

Members of the Gauteng Department of Social Development’s athletics club shared how participating in races such as the Modderfontein Half Marathon has positively impacted their physical fitness, mental well-being, and personal growth.

The half-marathon, organised by the Inkamana Athletics Club, took place on 10 May 2026.

Nhlulelo Hlatshwayo from supply chain management in the department’s southern corridor said his passion for running started long before the athletics club was established.

“I used to play soccer for the department, but I often struggled with fitness because I was not training enough.

“After joining the athletics club, my fitness improved significantly, and I no longer struggled during soccer games. Eventually, my love for running became stronger, and I decided to focus fully on it,” he said.

Thabo Machete from human resource management in the Johannesburg region said he was inspired to join the club after seeing chairperson Lungiswa Sbukwana complete a Comrades Marathon up run from Durban to Pietermaritzburg.

“Since joining the club, I’ve not looked back,” he said.

“Marathons help me test how far I can push myself as a person. Running has taught me resilience, and the club has also allowed me to network and meet new people.”

For Sindisiwe Msibi, a social worker in the Johannesburg region, encouragement from fellow club members keeps her motivated.

“The support I get from members of the athletics club pushes me to continue participating in races. Running is beneficial to my mental health and helps me cope better with life in general,” she said.

Joe Sigela, a child and youth care supervisor in the Johannesburg region, encouraged more employees to join the club.

“If you need time away from your busy schedule, want to improve your mental health and overall well-being, then join the department’s athletics club. It is also a great opportunity to meet new people and build networks,” he said.

Hazel Puthaza, a nursing assistant from the Eastern Corridor, said she joined the athletics club when it was first established.

“At first, I joined just for fun, but as time went on, I started taking it seriously. Participating in marathons has helped me a lot with my mental health, and I always feel positive, energetic, and ready for anything,” she said.

The athletics club continues to encourage employees to embrace healthy lifestyles, improve their mental wellness, and strengthen social connections through sport and fitness activities.