STELLAH Jongwe, Zimbabwe’s wheelchair racing sensation, has received the golden ticket to compete at one of the world’s most renowned athletics events, the 42nd Oita International Wheelchair Marathon in Japan, scheduled for November 19.
Jongwe is a symbol of hope after overcoming personal struggles to shine on a national level and now preparing to represent Zimbabwe internationally.
Her story is particularly inspiring since she was born with phocomelia, which resulted in underdeveloped lower limbs. She was then raised by a mentally-challenged mother and her father died when she was still an infant.
But with determination and her never-say-die spirit, she has turned her wheelchair into a chariot of dreams, racing towards success and defying all odds.
Despite securing her visa to Japan, Jongwe’s three-member team is still to secure airfares.
“It’s not just about me. It’s about every young person who has been told they can’t do certain things,” Jongwe told NewsDay Sport.
“Going to Japan for the Oita Marathon is the dream of every Zimbabwean who has supported and believed in me. I hope we can secure the sponsorship for our nation’s pride.”
Jongwe’s manager, Humphrey Vambe, emphasised the urgency of the situation.
“Stellah has a golden opportunity to showcase her talent on one of the biggest stages in the world. This isn’t just a race for her, it’s an opportunity to transform her life, bring her pride to Zimbabwe, and inspire countless others,” Vambe said.
“We earnestly appeal to the corporate world, individuals and well-wishers to step forward and support this rising star. A small contribution from you can bring about significant change in her life and for our nation.”
With time running out, the question is: Will Zimbabwe’s star athlete make it to the starting line in Japan?