​Last Saturday, 28 June 2025, around 150 members of the Gauteng Department of Social Development Athletic Team laced up their running shoes and hit the streets of Soweto as part of a Cancer Awareness Drive.
The inspiring race, which featured a 5km fun walk/run, 10km, and 21km distances, brought together runners, walkers, and families to raise awareness and support for the fight against cancer.

Regular runner Phathutshedzo Lehaha, a Community Development Practitioner from the Central Corridor, said after the race: “I’m a regular participant who is passionate about living a healthy lifestyle. My mission is to keep fit while reducing my vulnerability to opportunistic infections and diseases.”

Another participant, Anele Cele, a Child and Youth Care Worker from Walter Sisulu, shared her experience: "I ran the 10km race, and although it was tough due to the cold and harsh weather, we pushed through and finished strong.”

Cele added: “Since joining the Department in 2022, I’ve already taken part in about 20 races. Before that, I never thought I could run, but now I find it therapeutic, fun, and enjoyable.”

The next event on the team’s calendar is the highly anticipated Nelson Mandela Walk and Run, taking place on July 19 at the Wanderers Stadium. This race celebrates the legacy of the late former South African President Nelson Mandela, promoting unity, service, and compassion