Discovery Vitality and Afrika Tikkun Mark Milestone with First Running Shoe Handover in Diepsloot

The first official handover of donated running shoes through Discovery Vitality’s Give2Move initiative took place on Friday, 20 June 2025, at the Afrika Tikkun Wings of Life Centre in Diepsloot. This landmark moment saw verified beneficiaries between the ages of 13 and 30 receive the first pairs of donated footwear—marking a meaningful stride in the journey to promote physical activity and upliftment through movement.

Launched in February 2025 in collaboration with the Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture, Gayton McKenzie, Give2Move aims to inspire South Africans to donate new or gently worn running and sports shoes to those who need them most. By removing a basic barrier to exercise—lack of footwear—the campaign helps individuals take their first steps towards a more active and healthier lifestyle.

A Shared Vision for Empowerment Through Movement

“At Discovery Vitality, we believe that movement is a powerful catalyst for change. The Give2Move initiative is about more than just shoes—it’s about unlocking potential, dignity, and opportunity through physical activity. By collaborating with government, Afrika Tikkun and the broader community, we’re helping South Africans take their first steps—literally and figuratively—towards healthier, more empowered lives.”

said Dr Karen Johnson, Head of Strategic Programmes and Wellness at Discovery Vitality

The June 20 handover event was attended by Minister Gayton McKenzie and celebrated the first of many such moments to come. All recipients were verified beneficiaries of Afrika Tikkun, an organisation with a strong legacy in youth development, particularly in underserved communities.

Public-Private Collaboration in Action

“When government, corporates and civil society come together with a shared vision, we unlock real, scalable change. The Give2Move campaign is a testament to what public-private partnerships can achieve—restoring dignity, driving inclusion and investing in the potential of every South African.”

Marc Lubner, Group CEO of Afrika Tikkun, praised the campaign’s potential for scalable impact:

How You Can Get Involved

Discovery Vitality encourages members of the public to donate new or gently used running and sports shoes at the following drop-off points:

• Discovery offices
• Virgin Active gyms
• Sportsmans Warehouse stores
• Discovery Soccer Parks
• Selected parkrun events across South Africa

In addition to shoe donations, individuals can also make financial contributions via Afrika Tikkun to help purchase high-demand sizes and ensure efficient distribution.

Vitality Give2Move Schools Competition

In June, the initiative was extended to schools across South Africa. From 1 June to 15 August 2025, primary and secondary schools are encouraged to collect gently worn or new sports footwear. The two schools that collect the most shoes in their respective categories will each win R50,000 to support their own wellness and physical activity programmes.

Steps for Schools to Participate:

• Register your school for the #VitalityGive2Move initiative
• Set up a collection bin at the school
• Encourage learners, families, and communities to donate shoes
• Win R50,000 by collecting the most pairs (T&Cs apply)

This initiative is not only about giving shoes—it’s about giving hope, dignity, and a healthier future to the youth of South Africa.

To learn more about the Vitality Give2Move campaign and how to participate, visit Discovery Vitality’s official website.