Female inmate shines at the national championship

It has been proved that being behind bars does not mean you must give up on your dreams or even stop aiming high.
Sebenzile Mokoena (25) from Dwaleni who is serving her sentence at the Nelspruit Correctional Service, is a living testimony as she left spectators speechless at the National Offenders Championship.
This event was recently held in East London at Nelson Mandela Metropolitan University where inmates from various correctional facilities in the country showcased their talent in the different sporting codes.
Mokena, a talented sprinter, competed against 20 female offenders in the 200- metre race and managed it in 41 seconds, putting her in the spotlight.
The jubilant Mokoena said, “I am over the moon about my performance. My biggest wish is to continue and represent my country in the Olympic Games.
“The department has indicated that sport is a powerful tool to keep people focused and busy. Some of them can even make a living by using their talent in sports to better their lives.”
Spokesperson for correctional services at the Barberton facility, Messiah Hlungwani told Mpumalanga News that all inmates who performed well would continue to participate in other championships.
“Those offenders who did very well will take part in the National Athletics Championships that are scheduled to take place this year,” said Hlungwane

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He said such initiatives or activities will also play a significant role in integrating offenders back into the community