On October 26, 2024, After a gruelling month of knockout rounds, 012 Ayifuniwena Football Club emerged as champions, taking home the grand prize of R200,000 and marking a significant achievement for the team and its supporters at Rabie Ridge Stadium.
The African Pride Games, held annually in Johannesburg, have become a symbol of diversity and inclusion, particularly within the global LGBTI community.
With support from the City of Johannesburg, the games provide a platform for celebrating uniqueness and promoting acceptance. Each year, they bring together athletes from different backgrounds and experiences, fostering unity and understanding through sports.
Phuti Lekoloane, founder of the Phuti Lekoloane Foundation and a respected LGBTI activist, shared his pride at how the games have grown. “Today, we’re crowning a new champion of African Pride Games,” he said.
“Watching this event grow and seeing the positive impact it has is incredibly inspiring. These Games are about more than competition—they’re about fostering understanding and appreciation for the LGBTI community. That’s why we call it African Pride Games.” Lekoloane created the African Pride Games with a clear vision: to give LGBTI athletes a safe space to compete without fear of discrimination. He hopes the Games will not only amplify LGBTI voices but also promote inclusivity in sports. “We’re dedicated to fighting homophobia and biphobia,” Lekoloane added.
“By working with partners and stakeholders, we’re building a sports environment where all athletes feel welcomed and supported.” Among the spectators was Thulani Duma, manager of the Electrical Club in Auckland Park, who attended with his team. “I’m thrilled with my team’s performance,” he shared.
“We’ve only lost one game since we started two years ago, and being part of these Games has motivated us to aim even higher. This is just the beginning for us.”
The African Pride Games Games continue to grow each year, with organizers and participants hoping that they inspire broader acceptance and encourage more communities to support diversity and inclusion in sports. Through events like these, the Games shine a light on the importance of embracing differences and celebrating unity on and off the field.
Dr Karabo Semenya
28/10/2024
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