The South African Sports Confederation, Olympic and Paralympic Committee (SASCOC) supported the participation of eight learners from Khanya Lesedi Sports School of Specialisation at the Sharing Olympism Forum 2026, held in Maseru, Lesotho, from 13-16 August.
The forum, hosted by the Lesotho National Olympic Committee, brought together young people from Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, Eswatini and Lesotho to explore the principles of Olympism, sport and Ubuntu through debates, essay writing, poetry, public speaking and quizzes.
Representing South Africa were Rekgotsofetsi Mabaso, Nkateko Ntabanyane, Minenhle Nkosi, Boitshepo Mogale, Lwandle Roji, Leano Mdlame, Luyema Motsepe and Mapaseka Hlalele, who participated alongside their peers from across the continent.
For SASCOC, supporting the participation of the learners forms part of its broader responsibility as South Africa’s National Olympic Committee (NOC) to promote the fundamental principles and values of Olympism and to encourage the integration of sport with education and culture.
The Olympic Charter places National Olympic Committees at the heart of promoting Olympism within their respective countries, including the values of excellence, friendship and respect, while ensuring that the principles of the Olympic Movement are promoted through sport and education.
The Sharing Olympism Forum provided a practical platform for SASCOC to advance these principles by giving young South Africans an opportunity to engage with the Olympic Movement beyond sporting competition, while connecting and learning from young people from other African countries.
A notable achievement for Team SA came in the Poetry category, where Leano Mdlame secured second position, finishing behind Lesotho’s Thandaza Sebako. Mdlame was also recognised as the Best Poet in the Ubuntu theme, highlighting her engagement with the values of Ubuntu and their connection to the broader principles of Olympism.
SASCOC CEO Nozipho Jafta said: “Sport has a unique ability to bring people together, and the values of Olympism are particularly powerful when combined with the spirit of Ubuntu. Through initiatives such as the Sharing Olympism Forum, we continue to inspire, connect and empower the next generation through sport.”
The four-day programme gave the learners an opportunity to develop their communication, critical-thinking and leadership skills, while gaining exposure to different perspectives and cultures across the continent. Their participation also demonstrated the role that sport and Olympism can play in developing young people who are equipped to contribute meaningfully to their communities and society.
SASCOC congratulates the Khanya Lesedi Sports School of Specialisation learners on their participation in the Sharing Olympism Forum and congratulates Leano Mdlame on her achievement in the Poetry category.
Photo: Supplied