Vakhegula-Vakhegula founding member dies aged 87

LOCAL NEWS

By Staff Reporter

NKOWANKOWA – The Vakhegula-Vakhegula Football Club is mourning the loss of one of its beloved founding members, Masingita Violet Nomvela, who passed away on Monday, October 20, 2025, at the age of 87.

In a heartfelt Facebook post, the founder of the iconic grannies’ soccer team, Mama “Beka” Ntsan’wisi, paid tribute to Nomvela, describing her as one of the pioneers who believed in the vision of empowering elderly women through sport.

“Vakhegula-Vakhegula football club hero, mhani wa mina Masingita Violet Nomvela, who was among the very first grannies who joined me when I started the Vakhegula-Vakhegula Grannies soccer team 18 years ago. May her beautiful soul rest in peace,” wrote Ntsan’wisi.

Nomvela was one of the early members who helped shape the team into a global symbol of strength, resilience, and active aging.

Through her commitment, the Vakhegula-Vakhegula team gained international recognition, inspiring senior citizens across the world to stay fit and live purposefully.

A memorial service in her honour will be held on Thursday, 23 October 2025, at her home in Nkowankowa Section S, House No. 882, Ntshuxeko Street, starting at 12h00.

Community members, friends, and fellow Vakhegula-Vakhegula teammates are invited to join the family in remembering and celebrating her remarkable life and contribution to women’s sports.