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Joyce Ramabusa

Joyce Ramabusa

Special Olympics South Africa

Joyce Ramabusa, a fighter against adversity, was born on 20 December 1989, at Pelonomi Hospital in Bloemfontein, South Africa. She spent 18 years of her childhood living at “Tshireletsong”—a place of safety for neglected children after her mother abandoned her at the hospital. She was diagnosed with intellectual disability after she delayed reaching her developmental milestones.

When she was 9 years old, she started at Pholoho Special School, where her love for sports began. She participated in netball, athletics, and swimming. The South African Sports Association for the Intellectually Impaired (SASAII) selected her to represent South Africa in athletics meetings in Australia (2005), France (2009), and Germany (2010). She won three gold medals in each meeting. She joined Special Olympics, in 2013. In 2015, she participated in Special Olympics World Summer Games in Los Angeles, winning gold and silver medals in the 100m and 200m races.

Joyce became a Health Messenger in 2018. Her sharp advocacy skills and bravery led her to speak to the government leaders on behalf of her fellow athletes. She advocated for funding and resources for disability sports at the office of the Premier of Free State Province in Bloemfontein. She encourages athletes with disabilities to keep participating in sports and to stay healthy. She even started a women’s soccer team.

Joyce is employed as a receptionist in the golf club at the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture in Bloemfontein. When she is not working, she enjoys traveling, participating in recreational activities, singing in the church choir, and meeting new people.

Health Messengers 2023

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