Blanche Moila honoured to be 2025 Nelson Mandela Remembrance Walk and Run ambassador

This annual sports event is hosted by the Nelson Mandela Foundation and the Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation - to help honour the legacy of the late former President Nelson Mandela while reflecting on the nation’s journey toward justice and equality - it will take place on 07 December, starting and ending at the Union Buildings in Tshwane.

Speaking to SABC Sport, Moila says that this honour validates all her efforts in South African athletics.

“I feel deeply honoured and humbled by the opportunity to be an Ambassador for the Nelson Mandela Remembrance walk and run 2025. I had the privilege of being in his presence in 2001, when I received the State President's Award for lifetime achievements. This opportunity is a big deal to me; it also validates my humble efforts to make a difference in others' lives,” said Moila.

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Moila was the first black woman to receive Springbok colours in athletics in 1984. Her trailblazing career in athletics is marked by national titles and international representation - while she continues to inspire generations of athletes.

“I am content with my contribution to South African Athletics. It is ongoing. In the 80s being the first female athlete of colour to be awarded Springbok colors, I used that platform to encourage women from diverse communities to embrace running as a sport.

"At the time, in some communities, myths about women in sports prevailed. “Myths such as running excessively would detract from femininity, and women would not conceive. Myths now obviously disproven,” added Moila.

The 67-year-old mentor pleaded with South Africans to support the 2025 Nelson Mandela Remembrance walk and run. Stating that it allows South Africans to celebrate a man who led by example.

“This event is a momentous occasion. Reminding us of Tata - Nelson Mandela, who led by example, putting the needs of the community before personal desires. It is hard not to admire a man who befriended his own jailers, and when he was released, he did not seek revenge, thus inspiring people from diverse communities and cultures to reconcile,” she expressed.