By Palesa Ndinisa
In May 2025, a new movement was born in the heart of Ekurhuleni. Elevate As One, better known as EAO, a youth led nonprofit organisation (NPO) and township-based run club, has quickly grown into more than just a fitness initiative, but a community. Its mission is simple yet profound; to empower the youth through wellness, discipline, and togetherness.
The idea was sparked while co-founders Gabriel Skosana (25) and Gontse Moeketsi (24) were preparing for the Colgate Road Race earlier this year. They recognised how much a supportive, accessible fitness community could mean in their township and decided to take action. With both individuals having fitness as their primary background within their families, surely running came natural to them. Skosana’s parents have a history with running, leading them to be a part of marathons. Moeketsi’s brother was also a cyclist and a runner. Sharing the same passion for fitness, the two were immensely inspired to be who and what they are now- fitness fanatics.
The young men also have a strong team of active runners who play a vital role in ensuring the movement is maintained and successful weekly. “We have an appreciation for the township youth. It has a great potential and we wanted to create a movement that gives many a sense of belonging and progressive community. We wanted to help in creating a healthy environment by bringing such initiatives that we see in such a progressive place, our community,” added Moeketsi.
With black being the colour that represents Elevate As One Run Club, it unarguably gives a clean, sophisticated and power dynamic look which also assists runners with being exclusive as they stand out whilst running on the road. At the moment, the movement has no official sponsors but it has collaborated with Dapper District, which is a barbershop and a lifestyle hub focusing on men’s grooming and fashion located in KwaThema, Springs. Through its consistent alliance with Dapper District, the club has built its identity and amalgamated with local brands like Khõl as well Degama to design and brand their apparel items like caps and t-shirts. “Our runners gather no later than 07:00 every Saturday, at McDonald’s in Tsakane Mall. We then run and do distances that range from 3km to 8km. Our dedicated teammates monitor and facilitate the runs. Beyond the weekly runs, EAO hosts monthly activations at Dapper District in KwaThema. Ultimately, there is organised transport from Tsakane Mall for a return fee of only R20. These activations attract larger crowds, creating a festive and high-energy atmosphere that strengthens community bonds. We’re also actively looking to expand and build more partnerships in other locations as the initiative continues to grow,” excitedly expressed Skosana.
The gentleman also divulged how they have seen growth on their social media platforms as more and more people join their runs weekly. Townships such as Soweto have shown increasing interest, requesting Elevate As One run club to come their way. Although the club would wish to host runs in different areas of Gauteng province in future, currently, their goal is focused on growing within Ekurhuleni. Despite launching only months ago, EAO has seen remarkable growth as it has over 80 runners attending weekly. It has exceeded over 150 attendees joining on monthly activations and has just above a hundred thousand (100 000) views on TikTok and Instagram. Its WhatsApp channel has a good number of 240 engaged members thus far.
”We believe it’s important for people to be part of this initiative because it promotes an active lifestyle in a supportive, like-minded community. It will be helpful for those who’ve struggled to stay consistent on their own. Showing up for weekly runs build discipline, which can positively influence other areas of life. Beyond fitness, it encourages routine, boosts mental well-being, and helps people stay healthy and purpose-driven,” positively motivated Skosana.
People of all ages are welcomed to join the run club. For more information, email Elevateasonerun@gmail.com or contact Gabriel Skosana on 069 534 7172. Gontse Moeketsi can also be reached on 081 744 0232. Alternatively, anyone interested in joining can visit or follow ‘Elevate As One’ on Instagram and TikTok.
