The most powerful possibilities are human

Already employed within the Investec Group Sustainability team, the Paralympian is on track to represent South Africa at the Games in the long jump, 100m and 200m.

Peta Dixon, Investec South Africa’s head of sponsorships, said, ”It is an honour to sponsor such a passionate, patriotic, talented and determined athlete. He embodies the Investec culture through and through and is wholeheartedly committed to achieving his maximum while improving the lives of those in similar situations to his own.

“We aim to assist him wherever needed because he certainly is one out of the ordinary individual.”

While in utero, Mpumelelo was diagnosed with Amniotic Band Syndrome, which limits blood flow to certain limb parts. This restricts growth.

“In my case, there were amniotic bands that constricted my fingers, as well as my mind to the lower right shin. These bands cut off all my toes on my right foot and also started cutting into my right leg. I think I was three months old when I had my first surgery and spent a large part of my first six years in and out of hospitals.”

Having matriculated from Kearsney College with seven distinctions, the multiple world record holder said, “ I am still in disbelief and feel like I’m riding the crest of a wave. The culture, the people and the importance that Investec places on the value of their people and their lives is what drew me to work for the organisation some time back.

“When the sponsorships team approached me and offered their support on the road ahead, it provided further testament to the fact that Investec truly is 100% behind their staff in every single way, and always looking for opportunities to support them.

Investec is a brand that believes in enjoying your journey and empowering where possible:

“It is not about medals and records alone. I am grateful for the ongoing support, and I shall strive to make the organisation proud and look forward to a powerful relationship on the field and off it.”

The World Games gold medalist and double World Championship medalist, who trains up to six hours daily, is also involved in many NPO’s including The Chaeli Campaign, Steps Clubfoot South Africa and Jumping Kids.

World records held by Mpumelelo Mhlongo – T44:

• Long jump: distance 7.07m (Dubai, United Arab Emirates, November 13, 2019)

• 100m: time 11.00s (Dubai, United Arab Emirates: November 11, 2019)

• 200m: time 22.81s (Tokyo, Japan. September 3).