Photo Credit: Lions Cricket
Lions Cricket warmly welcomed their valued female pride members to a breakfast, panel discussion and well-earned time out.
In celebration of the Lions Cricket theme of “Celebrating women who tell our stories”, Lions Cricket yesterday hosted a panel discussion breakfast at the iconic DP World Wanderers Stadium. The event purpose was to recognise ladies within cricket for their achievements, their drive, their dreams and their diversities; and to further re-affirm the commitment that Lions Cricket has towards the growth of Women’s Cricket.
The panel included DP World Lions former and current players such as Tumi Sekhukhune, Jameelah Shaikjee, Sinalo Jafta and Yolani Fourie. Packing further power to the punch was Lions Cricket President Anne Vilas; Lions Cricket Independent Board Member Busi Radebe; CSA Mass Participation Coordinator Buhle Vaphi Motshegoa and President of the CGL Cricket Umpires Association Patricia Irene Coetzee. Topics covered included reminding players that their playing days are not only limited, but that there is life beyond the boundary with multiple study paths and careers on offer. Following your dreams was another topic of discussion, noting that women are equal in all that they do, but are able to achieve whatever they put their minds to.
Lions Cricket President Anne Vilas notes the importance that women play not only within the cricket eco-system, but far beyond the boundaries too;
“Within our Pride, we have women who lead by example through caring for others passionately and wholeheartedly. Women who are devoted, talented and powerful beyond measure whether a player, a mother, an umpire, a fan, a coach or an administrator. We appreciate each lioness and want her to know that she is far more valued and appreciated than just this single day. It’s imperative too that our ladies are reminded that there are no limits, that they can achieve their greatness and be their best – and that Lions Cricket is honoured to walk their journey with them.”
It is estimated that 80% of girls in under privileged communities miss an average of five days of school per month during their menstruation period – due to unavailability of sanitary pads. For this reason, Lions Cricket yesterday launched the Donate a Pack campaign, whereby the school who donates the most sanitary pads will win a suite to the Pink ODI match, SA vs India at the DP World Wanderers Stadium, on 17 December 2023.
Lions Cricket head of corporate social responsibility, Zethu Kaka concludes;
“One of the days objectives was to celebrate women who have paved the path towards progress in cricket on and off the field as well as to express love and gratitude towards all those who have touched our lives along the way. We honoured the struggles and successes of women who have and continue to break down barriers, who have achieved their goals and who are paving the pathways for us to grow from good to great.”
Lions Cricket would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all our incredible and valued partners who went above and beyond to make this event extra special.
Name of Author: Lions Cricket
Lions Cricket aims to foster a deep passion for cricket by advancing the sport through high-quality teams, nurturing club and school cricket, and providing a premier stadium experience. The organization also seeks to use cricket to drive inclusive and sustainable economic, social, and environmental change.