Showstopper Soshanguve Gogos take trophy home in Mandela Day sports clash

Cheers erupted from the side lines when the Soshanguve Gogo’s claimed victory over a Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) team during a Mandela Day sports celebration between the University and the community. Their inspiring performance embodied the spirit of Ubuntu in Action: Building an Inclusive Community while promoting wellness, teamwork and social unity.

Community aerobics and high-energy soccer matches kept participants active throughout the day. People of all ages joined the activities at the Soshanguve South Sports Field on 17 July, creating a joyful atmosphere filled with energy, laughter and community spirit. The programme demonstrated how sport can unite people while supporting physical and mental well-being.

Organised by the Directorates of Sport and Recreation, in collaboration with Transformation, Employment Equity and Diversity, Corporate Affairs and Marketing, and the Alumni Relations Office, the event welcomed TUT staff, alumni, community members, partners and sponsors for a shared celebration of the Mandela Day spirit.

The programme encouraged healthy living, teamwork and social cohesion while strengthening relationships between the University and the Soshanguve community.

One of the highlights was definitely the performance of the Soshanguve Gogo’s, who impressed spectators with their determination, teamwork and enthusiasm on the soccer field. When they later faced a TUT team and claimed the trophy, cheers erupted from the crowd. Their achievement showed that age is no barrier to staying active and contributing positively to community life.

Old Mutual, Metropolitan Police, TseboAfrica and Tsalanang supported the celebration, providing refreshments and snacks for participants, reinforcing the spirit of giving and service associated with Mandela Day.

Through initiatives such as this celebration, TUT builds relationships with surrounding communities while promoting inclusion and wellness. The event demonstrated ubuntu in practice, with the university, community and its partners working together to create a meaningful Mandela Day celebration.