Young athletes from KwaZulu-Natal and Leeds turn competition into connection, proving sport can bring continents together.
KwaZulu- Natal, South Africa (11 September 2025) – When hundreds of children from rural KwaZulu-Natal and Leeds laced up their shoes for the 5th Bambisanani Partnership International Athletics Challenge, the event was about more than medals. It was about friendship, and proving that sport has the power to connect young people across the world.
The word Bambisanani means “working hand in hand” in isiZulu, and this year’s challenge once again lived up to its name. Whether it was South African sprinters bursting down the track, or Leeds pupils testing their strength and speed, the true victory was found in the friendships formed and the dreams sparked.
This year’s challenge involved 346 learners from 12 schools in South Africa and three schools in the UK, competing through festivals at home and linked ‘virtual’ competitions abroad. For many of the South African children, it was their first time in a stadium setting, with the Nkandla Sports Stadium turning into a vibrant stage of cheers, teamwork, and determination.
The races produced some remarkable moments: Banete Olamia (Silambo Primary) sprinted to victory in both the 50m and 200m, while Nhlengethwa Unathi (Sigananda Primary) claimed the boys’ sprint double. Mome Primary’s Shandu Ndalwenhle amazed the crowd with a 12.5m overhead football throw, and Vumanhlamvu Primary stole the show in the relays, sweeping the top two spots. Beyond the podium, 14 learners were recognised for their outstanding leadership a reminder that the event is as much about values as it is about results.
In Leeds, competition was just as spirited. Athletes like Beau Woodhouse, who won four of six events at St. Joseph’s, Otley, and Florence Dyson from St. Mary’s, Horsforth, who notched three wins and two runner-up finishes, stood out in fields filled with talent.
What makes the Bambisanani Challenge unique is that its giving young aspiring athletes opportunities like experiencing a stadium’s atmosphere for the first time, something that might be part of one’s everyday life. Another unique aspect is all these performances across time zones and continents are brought together, showing that young athletes thousands of kilometres apart are connected by the same determination to push harder and celebrate one another’s success. All about linking continents and making them feel like neighbours.
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