By Lebone Rodah Mosima
Minister in the Presidency for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities Sindisiwe Chikunga has called on communities to support and attend the Special Olympics South Africa Summer Games in North West in August.
Chikunga made the call at the launch of Catching the Wind, which follows athletes, Kamogelo Moncho and Lumka Gogela, who have represented Special Olympics South Africa.
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“Today, we gather not only to premiere a film, but to celebrate an extraordinary journey, one that follows symbolically two remarkable athletes who have proudly represented Special Olympics South Africa,” Chikunga said.
“Their story reminds us that true greatness is not measured solely by medals, but by perseverance, dedication, and the courage to overcome every obstacle.”
She said the athletes’ journeys inspired people to see ability before disability, possibility before limitation and hope before doubt.
“This documentary captures far more than sporting achievement. It tells the story of individuals who dared to dream, who embraced every challenge, and who have become ambassadors for inclusion and equality,” she said.
Chikunga said sport had the power to transform lives by building confidence, promoting healthy lifestyles, fostering friendships and uniting communities across social and economic divides.
“For athletes with intellectual disabilities, sport also creates opportunities to demonstrate talent, develop independence, and contribute meaningfully to society,” she said.
She reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating an inclusive sporting environment in which every athlete could participate, compete and excel.
Chikunga said the government would continue working with Special Olympics South Africa on a sports-for-development agenda for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to ensure that athletes had opportunities to realise their full potential.
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She also praised the families, coaches, volunteers and support staff whose commitment had helped make the athletes’ journeys possible.
She said every successful athlete was supported by a community of people who believed in them, encouraged them and celebrated their achievements.
Addressing Moncho and Gogela, Chikunga said their determination had inspired countless young people, particularly young women, to believe in themselves.
“You have shown us that courage is stronger than fear, that perseverance overcomes adversity, and that dreams become reality through hard work and commitment,” she said.
Chikunga also congratulated those involved in producing Catching the Wind.
“Through powerful storytelling, this documentary shines a light on the importance of inclusion, dignity, and equal opportunity,” she said.
She said the documentary challenged stereotypes, changed perceptions and reminded audiences that every person’s story deserved to be told.
Reflecting on its message, Chikunga encouraged South Africans to build a country in which every person, regardless of disability, was valued, respected and empowered to reach their full potential.
“Let us continue to invest in inclusive sport, celebrate diversity, and champion the talents of all our athletes,” she said.
“As we prepare for the Summer Games to be held in North-West, in August, let’s mobilise even our communities of persons with and without disabilities to support and show up at the games,” she said.
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