Holistic health to impact the youth
Local fitness guru Mao Utonga wants the youth to build mental, physical and emotional strength.
Mao Bouy Utonga takes his passion for holistic health very seriously and wants young people to grow up to be physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually fit.
The 25-year-old personal trainer, conditioning coach and fitness instructor shares why health is something he is completely devoted to.
I am passionate about health, fitness and people. I work in the area of personal training and fitness at Gym on the Corner, in our beautiful suburb of Northcliff. My workplace is my second home.
Early on in life, I realised the important role health and fitness play in the lives of people. Being orphaned, I value seeing people smile with vitality. Life is a precious gift and fitness helps you overcome the stresses that you have. It helps you think better and act with more courage and confidence.
My experiences growing up as an orphan left me feeling uninformed. I had no one to give me guidance or introduce me to health and fitness, which meant I learned the hard way. I felt I had to strive to become a better person, but I wasn’t sure how. That’s why I am determined to use what I have learned to lighten the load of those around me.
I also want all the youth out there, feeling the way I once did to know, we were on the same road. They too can change their lives for the better despite the situation they may find themselves in.
I took steps to become a volunteer and share my skills. Out of all organisations to join, I chose Growing Champions because everyone at GC has the drive to succeed. We all share the same drive, which is to see the youth progress in life.
Last year I was blessed to marry Tyrah and experienced the truth of the organisation’s founder, Samantha Toweel-Moore’s words, ‘Love grows things. When you give you receive so much more.’ On our wedding day, three of my Growing Champions; Nhlanhla Hansen, Thikedzo Magoba and Tshepang Mokoena came to my assistance. In fact, Tshepang, postponed his 21st birthday celebration to be the photographer for me. This moved me.
At Growing Champions we strive to lead change.
My hope is that the more youth I help, the higher the chances I take them away from drugs, alcohol and wrongdoing, by showing them the bright future ahead and letting them know it is possible.
How will I do this? I will continue to give my all to my work and my efforts as a volunteer. In time I will open a training clinic where I train the youth in football techniques, bodyweight training, weight training and condition them based on whichever sport they play and help them stretch so they can be flexible. I will continue to lead change and bring health to our youth.
We are all responsible for making the world a better place. Come join or invest in my vision.
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