Absa Mauritius had the honor of hosting Mama Beka, founder of the South African women's team 'Soccer Grannies,' at Absa House in Ebene. It was an opportunity for Mama Beka to share her inspiring story with the bank's employees, lighting up the room with her contagious energy and passion for sports and love for others. A football match was also hosted on, followed by the launch of the first local senior women's football team.
Rebecca Ntsanwisi, better known as "Mama Beka," embodies the strength of resilience and generosity. Originally from Tzaneen, in the Limpopo province of South Africa, she turned her personal battle with cancer into a driving force for the well-being of her community. "In 2003, I was diagnosed with cancer, but I didn't let it defeat me. Instead, this ordeal gave me the strength to help children, build homes, and support women in my community. It was also during this time that the idea of creating the Soccer Grannies Club was born," highlighted Mama Beka.
The Soccer Grannies team, made up of women aged 55 to 80, is proof that it is possible to live physically and mentally healthy at any age, provided one adopts a healthy and active lifestyle. "To preserve one's health, it is essential to engage in regular exercise from a young age. Preparing for a healthy old age starting today is very important," explained Mama Beka.
The visit was also marked by a sporting event: the "Grannies' soccer match." Organised through the fruitful collaboration between Absa Mauritius and the High Commission of the Republic of South Africa, this match brought together two teams of Vakhegula-Vakhegula from South Africa at St. Francois Xavier Stadium in Port Louis. Beyond its competitive aspect, this event symbolised the official launch of the first team of elderly women in Mauritius, highlighting the importance of health and well-being through physical activity.
By supporting this project, Absa Mauritius demonstrates, as a pan-African organisation, its ability to facilitate connections between South Africa and Mauritius and reaffirms its new identity "Your story matters." "At Absa Mauritius, we are committed to being an active force for good in everything we undertake. Through initiatives like the 'Grannies' Soccer Programme,' we seek to promote inclusion, equality, and well-being for all. We firmly believe that every story matters and that every action can make a significant difference," adds Cedrine Chimon Rampal, Corporate Social Responsibility Manager at Absa Mauritius.
