When many people think of grandmothers, they think of old women who knit, bake cookies, and don't do much else outside the home. However, in South Africa, many grandmothers are the sole caregivers of grandchildren whose parents have passed away from HIV/AIDS. Women in South Africa do not play soccer, but a group of women in Limpopo known as the "Vhakegula Vhakegula,” or the “grannies grannies,” is forging new ground. The Vhakegula Vhakegula play soccer twice a week, primarily for exercise. In the process they also receive peace of mind, new friendships, joy and happiness. Many of them view this exercise as their medicine, helping them to avoid getting sick. The exercise has also helped many of the women overcome medical conditions that they had before playing soccer, including difficulty sleeping through the night. The benefits are seen in their smiles, shared singing, and in the enthusiasm with which they participate in this life affirming activity.

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  • nimo

    Thank you KT Team. Mom, Dad and I watched this film on the big screen today. It was fun. And also forwarded it to our Manav Sadhna sports team. They will enjoy it. Very inspiring! Loooove

  • Brenda Williamson

    I am inspired by the Courage of these Beautiful Ladies, by their Spirit and Will, to so challenge themselves, to keep well and keep strong, despite the many hardships they have lived through and that they continue to have to face and cope with, every day of their lives. I admire the kindness and generosity of their coach, Jack, in the help he affords them, and am very Thankful, for the care he shows, to them!

  • Michael

    It made people happy.

  • Barbara

    making peace, rebuilding their lives. They will find joy and purpose again. What about the younger women that are struggling even now, before they become old with so many problems... Can they find a way to make a come back too?! LEt's Try. Also i invite you to seewww.grandmothersspeak.com , or https://netoflight.org Maybe we can come to your country and join you in making peace?

  • Barbara

    The enthusiasm and commitment that the Grannies Grannies demonstrate is wonderful. Their laughter is contagious (and the best form of medicine, as the saying goes). The whole video has inspired me to get moving again, with my own personal fitness. I want to thank Beka too, for his big heart, skill and lovely attitude. Grannies everywhere are such a well of wisdom, caring and Love. They deserve to be admired and respected. With Love, xx

  • Sathya

    THE LIGHT OF THE DIVINE HAS BROKEN THROUGH THE PAIN BY THESE HEARTS OPENING TO A HIGHER POWER....HAVING GONE THROUGH MANY TRIALS AND TRIBULATIONS THEIR DEMONSTRATION OF FAITH AND LOVE SHOWS THE HEALING POWER THAT EXSISTS WHEN WE SAY ‘YES’ TO LIFE....BLESSINGS I LOVE YOU ALL! WE ARE ONE IN THE SPIRIT❤️

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  • Learn more about the Soccer Grannies
  • Encourage senior citizen activity by sharing these exercise tips with seniors in your community. 
  • Take a senior citizen in your life to a fitness class, gym, or on a walk. 

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