In a spirited celebration of sportsmanship and wellness, the 2nd Annual Mental Health Awareness Sports Tournament, hosted by the Aurum Institute in collaboration with the North-West Department of Health and various partners, took centre stage this past Saturday. Held at Alabama Stadium, the event attracted participants eager to raise awareness about mental health while embracing physical fitness.
With energy and enthusiasm, participants engaged in a full day of activities that not only spotlighted the importance of mental health but also underscored the vital connection between a sound mind and a fit body.
“When the mind is healthy, it impacts how our bodies respond to our day-to-day activities,” remarked Dr. KK District Manager, Mr Sandile Moyakhe. “Having a healthy mind is just as important as having a healthy body.” His words resonated throughout the day, as the event fused physical activity with education on mental well-being
The tournament, which debuted in October 2023 in the Ngaka Modiri Molema district, has quickly become a cornerstone event for the Aurum Institute. This year, the Dr. Kenneth Kaunda district led the initiative, with future plans for Bojanala to host in 2025, reflecting the event’s growing reach. What started as a workplace wellness program has expanded its mission to include the broader community, working closely with district-level organisations to foster a culture of health that extends beyond the professional sphere.
Ms Lelethu Mahamba, Supervisor: Counsellors and a key figure in the initiative, emphasized the holistic nature of the event.
“The concept of total wellness recognises that every thought, word, and behaviour affect our overall health and well-being. The mind and body are not separate—what affects one, affects the other. It is essential to break the stigma around mental health.” Mahamba’s sentiments highlighted the broader aim of the event: to promote understanding and acceptance of mental health as an integral part of overall wellness.
The tournament served not only as a platform to promote mental health awareness but also as a call to action for individuals and communities to embrace physical activity as a proactive measure against chronic illnesses. Aurum’s Senior Programme Manager, Mr. Mzukisi Michael Mbane, echoed this sentiment: “We need to break the stigma on mental health and create an environment where employees feel valued and appreciated. Prioritising mental health is a key driver of individual productivity, job satisfaction, and overall well-being.”
Central to the day’s events were the candid conversations around mental health, breaking down the barriers that often prevent open dialogue on the subject. “Let us be open to having difficult conversations about mental health and well-being,” urged Dr. Phindile Nxumalo, Senior Technical Director. “Let us make mental health a priority for all of us.”
This year's tournament was a resounding success, highlighting the importance of both mental and physical health. It paved the way for continued conversations, further community involvement, and a healthier future for all who participated.
