Champions from the Mary Asher Centre (left to right) Vigie Reddy, Reena Damos, Freda Pather, Stacey Ronald, Somaree Roopnarain, and Kim Roppnarayan proudly hold up the winning trophy.

Tafta champions active ageing at Sports Day

Age is no barrier to participation, competition or living life to the full! More than 200 older persons brought this message to life at Tafta’s Annual Sports Day, held at Kings Park Athletics Stadium on 6 October 2026.

Following hard on the heels of the United Nations’ International Day of Older Persons on 1 October, our Sports Day embraced the UN’s global #OldEnoughTo campaign, challenging age-based stereotypes and celebrating the rights, abilities and contributions of older persons.

Under the theme “The Age of Longevity: Rethinking Systems for Longer Lives,” the campaign reinforces an important message: growing older should never mean growing less involved.

Tafta CEO Femada Shamam said the event demonstrated the importance of creating opportunities for active ageing.

“Longer lives are about more than simply adding years. They are about what those years can hold. Older persons should have opportunities to stay active, build relationships, try new things, have fun and contribute. Tafta’s Sports Day is a wonderful example of what can happen when people are given the opportunity to participate rather than being defined by their age,” said Shamam.

The stadium came alive with team colours, cheering and plenty of competitive spirit as participants from Tafta’s residential facilities, wellness centres and community clubs competed in activities including bean bag toss, goal scoring, potato and spoon races, ball over ball and relays.

Beyond the physical benefits, Sports Day promoted mental wellbeing, social connection and a sense of belonging, all essential elements of active ageing.

Tafta’s Divisional Manager of Operations, Yoshina Kistensamy, said the event was a reminder of what can happen when older persons are given opportunities to participate fully.

“Programmes like these are where we see the personality, determination and competitive spirit of our older persons shine through. They came ready to participate and they certainly did not come to take it easy,” said Kistensamy. “What made the day special is that everyone got involved, whether they were competing, supporting their house team, dancing or simply enjoying being together.”

Even Tafta staff joined the action, taking on a team hula-hoop challenge that drew plenty of laughter and encouragement from spectators.

With DJ Alan keeping spirits high as Master of Ceremonies, the day concluded with Mary Asher Centre from Kings Hall claiming first place and the coveted 2026 Sports Day title.

The event was generously supported by Panbake, Ashraful Aid, Alive Air, AVBOB and Feedem Caterers. Dragon Security, Citi Med and Allmed provided essential event and medical support.

Reflecting on the #OldEnoughTo campaign, Shamam emphasized that active ageing extends beyond physical activity.

“Tafta is part of a much broader community of older persons, and Sports Day gives us the opportunity to bring those communities together. It is about sharing an experience, strengthening connections and creating spaces where older persons remain visible and involved in the wider community,” she said.

Tafta encourages individuals, businesses and organisations to support initiatives that promote active ageing and challenge ageism. To partner with Tafta in creating more opportunities for older persons to thrive, contact Tafta on pr@tafta.org.za or call 031 332 3721.