ALEXANDRA township, commonly known as Gomora, is not for the faint-hearted.
From unemployment and low-income households to poor living conditions, young people often find themselves trapped by peer pressure.
This frequently leads to drug and alcohol abuse, or even dropping out of school.
However, there's a beacon of hope in the form of Alex Run, an NGO dedicated to changing the narrative for kasi youths.
By engaging young girls and boys in extramural activities like running through their Juniors Programme, Alex Run aims to create a positive environment that keeps children off the streets.
ALSO READ: Seven years later, father still in tears
On Saturday, 27 April, children aged between eight and 18 from various schools met at Kwabhekilanga Sports Grounds for a running event.
The day was dubbed, "Juniors' Day" and was meant to put everything else aside and make it about the "Alex Child".
“We want to get kids from Alex off the street into running. We want them to know that there's life in running and that it can open up more opportunities like sponsorships… We want a bright future for these kids and every time we see more and more coming to apply,” said Nomthandazo Moloi, the organisation's administrator.
Zenzile Maseko, a 42-year-old mother to 10-year-old Sindisiwe, shared her child's passion for athletics.
Lizzie Dikgale, another parent, said she finds joy in her children's involvement in sport.
"It's not only about physical health but mental well-being too. This could pave a way for their recognition on bigger stages," she said.
Beyond physical activity, Alex Run also focuses on mental development through a reading programme.
Leigh-Ann Kumalo, the co-ordinator, emphasised the importance of reading with comprehension.
"Our goal is to foster confident kids who excel both in the sports field and beyond," she said.
