MS ROSALINA MOLISE: WALKING HER WAY TO A HEALTHY AND ACTIVE LIFESTYLE

By Refilwe Louw

• Ms Rosalina Molise (66), from Smithfield in the Xhariep District of the Free State Province, has practised brisk walking since her early teenage years.
• She dreams of representing Smithfield on national and international platforms to inspire older persons to embrace an active lifestyle.
• Her message to all generations, especially her grandchildren, is that healthy living has no age limit and should begin early.

Born in 1960 and raised in Smithfield, in the Xhariep District of the Free State Province, Ms Rosalina Molise has built her life around physical activity, discipline and healthy living. Her passion for brisk walking began in her early teens and has remained a constant ever since.

For Ms Molise, brisk walking is more than exercise; it is a way of life. She believes that staying active gives her energy, confidence, happiness and a sense of fulfilment. What started as a childhood habit has grown into a lifelong commitment to staying healthy.

Reflecting on her journey, Ms Molise said that walking slowly has never been part of her routine.
“Walking slowly is not part of my daily routine. When I walk briskly, I feel a sense of belonging, happiness and fulfilment. I would love my grandchildren to experience the same joy and benefits that I continue to enjoy,” she said.

At 66, Ms Molise is living proof that age need not limit an active and fulfilling life. Her dedication to brisk walking is not only about her own wellness, but also about inspiring others to take charge of their health, whatever their age.

Looking ahead, Ms Molise dreams of representing her hometown, Smithfield, on national and international platforms. She hopes to use such opportunities to motivate members of her community, particularly older persons, to believe in their abilities and embrace an active lifestyle.

Her greatest wish is to be a living example: if she can do it at 66, others can too. Through her journey, she hopes to remind her community that staying active, pursuing dreams and caring for one’s health have no age limit.

Beyond her personal commitment, she hopes to inspire younger generations, especially her grandchildren, to embrace physical activity and understand that healthy living is a journey that should begin early and continue throughout life.