The event is scheduled to take place on Saturday, 20 September at Marks Park Sports Club in Emmarentia, Johannesburg. The event attracted more than 2 500 participants last year and it is expected to continue to grow with each year, says Neema Foundation for the Deaf.

The event is hosted as part of Deaf Awareness Month that is commemorated in annually in September, and is also part of commemorating the International Week of Deaf People themed, "No Human Rights Without Sign Language Rights" (Monday, 22 to Sunday, 28 September) in remembrance of the first World Congress of the World Federation of the Deaf, held in September 1951. The #SilentWalk&Run2025 continues to bring the awareness through a family friendly walk-and-run that brings both the Deaf and hearing communities together to promote awareness, inclusivity and unity, adds the foundation.

The event further encourages everyone to learn South African Sign Language, promoting the inclusion of the Deaf community in mainstream society, and fostering a better understanding of Deafness and Deaf culture to improve communication between Deaf and hearing communities, says the foundation.

The event is being hosted in partnership and collaboration with Gauteng Department of Sports, Arts, Culture and Recreation, City of Johannesburg, Africanbank, Safer South African Foundation, GBVF Response Fund, and Aspen Pharmaceutical, amongst other partners. The partnerships underscore the importance of inclusivity and accessibility for the Deaf community with their continued support, adds the foundation.

"The public learning South African Sign Language would be a massive boost for inclusivity and connection with the Deaf community by breaking down communication barriers and allowing for more interactions, understanding and empathy between the Deaf and hearing communities — the #SilentWalk&Run is impactful by fostering inclusive environments," says Cebisile Ndebele, Neema Foundation Chairperson.

Event Highlights

The #SilentWalk&Run 2025 promises a comprehensive and engaging experience, incorporating a fun walk-and-run with opportunities for participants to acquire sign language skills through various activities situated along the route. According to the foundation, the event's activities include:

  • A Fun Walk-and-Run: A silent walk-and-run where participants from the hearing community walk alongside their Deaf peers to raise awareness and reduce barriers.
  • Deaf Masterclasses: Sessions likely focused on deaf culture, sign language, or related topics.
  • Silent Aerobics and Yoga: Fitness activities done in silence to promote participation and inclusivity.
  • Disability Information Expo: A showcase of services and products from various organisations supporting the disability sector.
  • Entertainment by Deaf Persons: Various performances by Deaf individuals, choirs, comedians and more.

Despite slow progress in recognising South African Sign Language as an official language, the Deaf community in South Africa continues to face significant challenges. These challenges include limited access to education and employment opportunities, heightened vulnerability to violence and Gender-Based Violence and obstacles in daily interactions with public services due to communication barriers, says the foundation.

The #SilentWalk&Run is a positive stride towards addressing these challenges. By fostering inclusivity, raising awareness and promoting interaction between the Deaf and hearing communities, the event promotes awareness by highlighting challenges faced by the Deaf community, encourages inclusivity by bringing together Deaf and hearing participants for a collaborative walk-and-run that builds connections.

Proceeds from the 9th annual #SilentWalk&Run will go towards Neema Foundation for the Deaf support of Deaf victims of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), concludes the foundation.

Individuals are encouraged to purchase tickets here.

For more information, visit www.foundationneema.org.za. You can also follow Reach For A Dream on Facebook, LinkedIn, X, or on Instagram.

*Image courtesy of contributor