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Pedaling Towards Unity: South African Youth Celebrate Diversity

Pedaling Towards Unity: South African Youth Celebrate Diversity
CYCALIVE riders arriving in Durban. Photo credit: Tilanie Grote Photography

The 2024 Cycalive Ride 2 Durban brought together learners from diverse communities in a shared journey of discovery and achievement, highlighting the significance of celebrating South Africa’s rich cultural diversity.

Students from Pace College, Moletsane High, Soweto Afrika Tikkun, Orange Farm and Torah Academy Gauteng and Cape participated in an exhilarating 700km cycling event from Johannesburg to Durban, embodying South Africa’s spirit of unity and rich cultural tapestry. The Cycalive team together with Rabbi Dovid Hazdan, stopped on route and visited an early childhood development centre and an orphanage to hand out gifts and supplies.

“The journey, which began on 18 August, culminated on 22 August with a heartfelt welcome by the KZN Jewish community and learners from Eden College and Brettonwood High School in Durban,” says Susan Abro – President of the South African Jewish Board of Deputies (SAJBD) KZN Council.

Cyclists were safely led in to Durban by Metro Police and treated to snacks, generously sponsored by the Durban Hebrew Schools Association (DHSA). The cyclists and attending students also enjoyed donuts sponsored by the Union of Jewish Women (UJW). Guests of the Cycalive Ride 2 Durban dinner were honoured to have US Consul General, Josie Radcliffe, and Councillor Sibusiso Lushaba and Ms Rekha Devalence, representing the eThekwini Mayor’s Office in attendance.

The principal of Torah Academy, Rabbi Dovid Hazdan the founder of the Cycalive Ride 2 Durban, explained how he conceived a vision of a cycling adventure that would unite participants from all walks of life. With the support of partnering schools and generous sponsors, this dream became a reality.

“Since inception in 1998, the Cycalive Ride 2 Durban remains a powerful symbol of unity and resilience, inspiring young South Africans to embrace their heritage and work together towards building a shared future,” concludes Abro.