Durban University of Technology’s (DUT) Faculty of Health Sciences proudly partnered with Izitebele Social Runners for their annual Women’s Day Fun Run/Walk at Kings Park Stadium on Saturday, 9 August 2025.
This vibrant event brought together over 700 participants, uniting women, families, and the broader community in a morning of fitness, fun, and celebration.
Mr Andile Sibaya, founder of Izitebele, said the event was more than just running, it is about celebrating women and empowering them. He also expressed his satisfaction with the event’s success and appreciated all the participants, and partners especially DUT.
“We are grateful to everyone who took their time and joined us in this unique day of celebrating women. To participants, partners and supporters thank you so much,’’ said Sibaya.
For DUT, this was an opportunity to live out values of community engagement, health promotion, and empowerment, while showcasing the diverse expertise within the Health Sciences departments.
The partnership with Izitebele Social Runners whose motto is ‘Never Run Alone’ reminded the participants that strength comes from standing, running, and growing together.
The purpose behind this collaboration is that the Women’s Day Fun Run/Walk aligns perfectly with DUT’s commitment to uplifting communities and promoting holistic wellness. The event’s focus on empowering women, encouraging healthy living, and creating an inclusive space for all resonates deeply with Faculty’s mission.
During the event the Department of Chiropractic offered free spinal assessments and advice, helping runners and walkers understand the importance of spinal health. Department of Somatology provided relaxing post-event massages to soothe tired muscles and enhance recovery after the run.
Also, the department of Emergency Medical Care and Rescue (EMCR) staffed water tables and marshalling points along the route to keep participants safe and hydrated. At the finish line, EMCR students and staff hosted a CPR demonstration station, equipping everyday people with the lifesaving skill of hands only CPR.
Dr Siphelelisiwe Sikhahlane from the Chiropractic department who was supervising students who were treating the runners; briefly emphasised the importance of such a partnership in providing students with practical learning opportunities.
“It is very important for students to be exposed to the practical side of things. To practically showcase and sharpen their skills in different aspects. So, sport is one of the aspects where we treat spine related conditions,’’ said Dr Sikhahlane.
The CPR station drew great interest, with participants of all ages eager to learn. By the end of the morning, hundreds of people walked away with the confidence to act in an emergency.
The event not only promoted physical health but also celebrated women as leaders, achievers, and changemakers. From students in uniform to mothers running with children, it was a living picture of women inspiring women.
The Faculty of Health Sciences is proud of this partnership and looks forward to more opportunities to collaborate across disciplines, taking health education outside the classroom and into the heart of the community.
Pictured: EMCR students were part of the fun run.
Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini
Amy Elizabeth Lagesse/Vukani Langa
