WATCH: Brighton speaks of his sobriety on Mandela Day
The emphasis on this Mandela Day is to stay away from substance abuse and take control of your life.
Different stakeholders met at Bellavista Clinic on July 19 to celebrate Mandela Day by promoting a healthy lifestyle and condemning substance abuse.
These stakeholders include Gauteng’s Department of Sport and Department of Health, clinic staff, ward 55 Clr Rashieda Landis, Miss Soweto 2021 Ludina Ngwenya, Brighton Mhlongo, Anova Health Institute, Believers Care Society Centre of Excellence, Sanca, Flourish Network and the African Youth Development Fund.
The day started on a high with aerobics after Landis welcomed the stakeholders and the community. There were other activities including drug and health talks, as well as board and mind games.
One of the guest speakers, professional soccer player Brighton Mhlongo, spoke about his six years of sobriety and encouraged the community to look after themselves.
“My journey as a professional footballer started at Orlando Pirates at the age of 10. I played for the development team until I was promoted to the senior team. I turned professional at 17.
“You can imagine at the age of 17 playing for the big team – the fame, the money and everything glamorous.
Without mentorship it was difficult. A lot of things were happening in my life at that time. I indulged in alcoholand drugs while I was still playing.
“Fast-forward now, it’s been six years since I decided that I will change my life. Since then I manage to stay clean. I don’t drink alcohol and don’t take drugs.
“All of that helped me with my focus and recovering from the injuries. I used to get injured a lot and it would take a long to heal. The decision I took six years back has changed my life and helped me to grow to be a wise man.
“Please say no to drugs, if you have challenges with substance abuse you can always beat them. That’s why we are here, we are going to join forces and win this battle,” explained Mhlongo.
Health promoter Evodia Barry said people need to eat healthily with more fruits and vegetables, also to exercise at least twice a day and sleep on time.
Ops manager Nombali Mlambo said the community needs to come to the clinic for a pap smear, HIV/Aids test, Covid-19 (as it still exists) and test for TB when you noticed symptoms.
