MEET OUR RACE AMBASSADORS
Empowerment knows no bounds as the ambassadors of the SPAR Women’s Challenge shine brightly, inspiring others with their dedication to uplifting women. For these remarkable individuals, #ChooseYou transcends a mere hashtag; it embodies a profound commitment to self-discovery and empowerment. Each ambassador has forged their unique path, navigating challenges and seizing opportunities to become the change they wish to see. Through resilience and determination, they have embraced the essence of #ChooseYou, carving out their destinies while empowering others to do the same.
We explored what #ChooseYou means to each of these extraordinary men and women, and how they embraced it to shape their remarkable trajectories.
Michelle Mokone
I understand what I value, and never compromise on my values. Now I choose to walk in my purpose and full alignment of where I am meant to be.
Mo Mokone
I choose to block out the noise from societal pressures. Pressures that force you to look a certain way, speak a certain way or have a certain qualification or background in order for you to have a purpose. I am uniquely made and my differences are what make me the person I am proud to be today.
Rozanne McKenzie
I choose to put my own wellbeing first, even amidst a busy schedule, it is important to prioritise my own needs.
Martin Bester
Self-care matters. Be kind to yourself. You need to look after yourself before you can be of any use to other people, let alone yourself. #ChooseYou
Nondumiso Phaahla
Choosing fulfillment and choosing to live with purpose.
Retang Phaahla
Through daily choices that align with our mental, emotional, physical and spiritual wellbeing.
Adre Muller
#ChooseYou is a testament to self-love, empowerment, and resilience. It urges you to prioritise your wellbeing, follow your dreams, and embrace self-discovery. In a demanding world, #ChooseYou guides us back to ourselves, reaffirming our worth and empowering us to live authentically. To everyone who faces adversity with courage, embraces their strength, and chooses themselves: You’re a beacon of hope and resilience. #ChooseYou to honour the beautiful, resilient, extraordinary YOU.
Vanes-Mari du Toit
Choosing myself means constantly pushing my personal limits. It’s not about competing with others, but challenging and competing with who I am. Stepping out of my comfort zone to grow satisfies my ambitions, allowing me to fill my cup and pour into others. You can’t give from an empty cup, so building myself up enables me to elevate others.
Sarina Bosman
This year’s theme #ChooseYou really resonates with me. To me, it means choosing my boundaries, choosing things that bring me joy, choosing to say no to things that steal my peace. To be the best version of yourself, you have to #ChooseYou!
Waney
#ChooseYou means doing more things that make me happy, and getting rid of the things that don’t!
Janey
#ChooseYou means taking care of my mental health. As a mom, it’s important for me to feel my best so that I can be the best mom to my 2 boys.
Warrior Ric
Choosing isn’t always simple, especially with endless options. But when we weigh the personal benefits combined with the impact on a troubled world, the decision becomes clear. Choose yourself. Opt to be your best self. Even if it’s unpopular or doesn’t earn many likes or followers, choose yourself. As you focus on self-improvement, the right people will rally behind your aspirations. Choose yourself because your distinct talents illuminate today’s gloom, paving the way for a brighter tomorrow. #ChooseYou.
Corli Prinsloo
Life is all about choices. Choose your own way, choose your own happiness, choose to live, no matter what season you find yourself in. It should be a phrase that encourages you to make your own decisions and take ownership of your own life. Choose yourself first every day, every time, because when you #ChooseYou, you also start attracting everything that is choosing you!
Hanna Grobler
To be a mom is the most selfless job you will ever find yourself in. Combine that with charity work and there’s very little time left for you. But to be 100% percent in my career, mom life and our organisation, Hanna Charity, I need to make time for things that energise me…Being creative, exercise, spending time with close friends. #ChooseYou in your busy schedule every day, so you can be a better person to those around you.
Gerda van Schalkwyk
I choose womanhood, embracing my uniqueness. #ChooseYou. Each day, I prioritise myself by rising early to meditate for 10 minutes. Then, I dedicate time to fitness—walking, pilates, gym, or boxing. Following my morning routine, I focus on self-care, grooming, and styling. Finally, I cherish moments with girlfriends, sharing wine and camaraderie, fostering mutual importance and connection. By choosing myself, I become better for those around me.
Annelie Bouwer
#ChooseYou is about having the courage to lead the life you want and not what the world says. We hear it each time we get on the airplane. “In case of a cabin pressure emergency, put on your own oxygen mask first before assisting others.” You can’t help others for very long if you don’t take care of yourself first. What if, in life, you metaphorically put your oxygen mask on first, not because you’re selfish, but because you can do more — for others and for yourself — if you prioritise your own needs, mental health, and happiness.
Zaakirah Khaalek
Choosing yourself means recognising your worth, prioritising your needs, and embracing your strengths and passions. It’s about self-care, self-respect, and self-empowerment. Choosing yourself means listening to your inner voice, pursuing your dreams, and standing up for what you believe in, even when it’s not the easiest path. It’s about honouring your journey and taking ownership of your life, embracing both the challenges and the triumphs along the way.
Jenny van Dyk
Choosing myself means tuning into the voice inside that says I’m capable, I’m worthy, and I can conquer challenges. It’s also about tuning out the negative voice that says the opposite. This self-dialogue is crucial because you’re your own most frequent conversationalist. What you tell yourself can shape your path, and I choose to empower myself to become who I’m meant to be.
Vuvu Zongo
Choosing yourself is vital for personal growth, happiness, and fulfillment. It’s important to prioritise your needs, goals, and wellbeing in order to lead a fulfilling life. To choose yourself in daily life, practice self-care, set boundaries, pursue your passions, and prioritise activities that bring you joy and fulfillment. Remember to listen to your inner voice, trust your instincts, and make choices that align with your values and aspirations. By prioritising self-awareness and self-care, you can cultivate a greater sense of purpose and satisfaction in your daily life. Leading a present life comes from depositing in your own cup. #ChooseYou
Sophia Matlou
Life is all about choices. I choose me. I indulge in dinners alone, buy myself flowers, and live each day as if it’s my last. Living freely, feeling lighter, happier—all because I’ve chosen myself.
Ouma Tema
I’ve come to understand that I’m the one I’ve been waiting for. No one can save you like you can, and no one knows you better than you know yourself. That’s why I’ve always made the choice to prioritise myself.