SEBOKENG.-The Etelang Pele Community Service Centre launched an outdoor gym at 14361 Mofolo Street, Zone 11 in Sebokeng. Community members, both young and old, attended the launch to celebrate the achievement of this project, which was sponsored by Cashbuild.The board members of Etelang Pele had been planning this project for three years. They were inspired by the need to give back to the community they serve, as many people in their community suffer from health issues due to lack of exercise and to promote a healthy lifestyle. Gym memberships can be too expensive for those from disadvantaged backgrounds, so this outdoor gym provides an accessible option for those who cannot afford membership fees.
The opening prayer and sermon were conducted by Evangelist Ezekiel Shosanya and Reverend Lungile Sochifa. During the event, Dr. Prophet Masekameng, Mpho Molakeng (the Director of Etelang Pele Community Service Centre), and Mimi Masala (the Divisional Director of Cashbuild) had the opportunity to celebrate and offer words of encouragement on this milestone project.
Speaking to Sedibeng Ster, Mpho Molakeng, the director of Etelang Pele Community Service Centre, explained the need for this outdoor gym: “The outdoor gym was sponsored by Cashbuild after we made a proposal to them three years ago. We saw that many people in our community were not living healthy lifestyles, with people not exercising or eating healthily. This gym aims to prevent obesity and promote a healthy lifestyle. Additionally, high unemployment rates in the township make it difficult for people to afford gym memberships. When we approached Cashbuild, we highlighted these issues and decided to create an outdoor community gym that would benefit all members of the community.”
Corporate Social Responsibility aims to build strong relationships with the community and demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of local residents. Such involvement inevitably creates a positive work environment for employees by boosting morale, as it shows that the company is dedicated to giving back to the community.
Mimi Masala, the Divisional Director of Cashbuild, stated: “Gyms promote physical activity and healthy lifestyles among community members, which can reduce healthcare costs and improve overall quality of life. These spaces also offer relaxation and recreation that can improve mental health and reduce stress levels in the community.”
The handover and ribbon-cutting were done by Mimi and Mpho. The Ditshepe Tsa Ngwao Ya Setswana dance group performed at the event, and health and fitness instructor Mokula Mabizela instructed community members on how to use the equipment.
