Running for change: Nkosi Nsumbu's inspiring journey of hope and empowerment

“If I can do it, so can you.”

These powerful words encapsulate the spirit of Nkosi Nsumbu, a 25-year-old model, filmmaker, and content creator from Cape Town.

As he prepares to run in the Cape Town Marathon, Nsumbu aims to raise awareness about the societal challenges faced by young men living in townships.

Growing up in Samora Machel, one of Cape Town’s most dangerous townships, he has firsthand experience of the trauma and adversity that can shape a person's life.

A journey of resilience

Born in Gugulethu and raised in Samora Machel, Nsumbu’s early life was marked by hardship.

He has faced life-threatening situations, including being held at gunpoint in an environment where fatalities are reported weekly. Yet, despite these challenges, Nsumbu embodies a belief that anything is possible.

“I spend most of my days proving that to myself and to others,” he shares, emphasising the importance of resilience. “Surviving is just the beginning; thriving is the goal.”

Nsumbu's career is as diverse as his talents.

While he identifies primarily as a model, he also works as a filmmaker and businessman.

“Honestly, I’d say I’m just an all-around creative,” he explains. “I want to tell stories that matter and inspire change.”

Overcoming challenges in the hood

Navigating life as a young man in the hood comes with its own set of challenges.

Nsumbu highlights the lack of access to opportunities and networks as a significant barrier.

“In the hood, it’s easy to feel boxed in by your environment,” he notes. The pressure to prove oneself in the modelling industry adds another layer of difficulty.

However, Nsumbu has learned to build his own lane, showing up consistently and staying grounded even when the odds seem stacked against him.

He recalls the negativity that often surrounded him growing up, with few positive role models to look up to.

“I always dreamed big, which made me stand out,” he says, reflecting on his journey. “People told me I was wasting my time, but I knew I had to invest in myself.”

Investing in gym equipment and exercising at home, he faced criticism from peers who doubted his ambitions.

But he persevered, turning challenges into opportunities for growth.

“Every setback is a setup for a comeback,” he asserts.

The power of running

Nsumbu’s journey into running began at a young age.

“I started running around the age of seven,” he recalls, reminiscing about racing friends in the neighbourhood.

However, it wasn’t until 2020 that he embraced running as a serious discipline.

Initially, a means to clear his mind, running quickly evolved into a lifestyle and an integral part of his work.

Joining the Running Late Club provided Nsumbu with a sense of community and highlighted the transformative power of running.

“It’s not just physical; it’s mental and social too,” he explains.

“Running has taught me that we can uplift each other, one step at a time.”

A mission to raise awareness

Nsumbu’s participation in the Cape Town Marathon is not just about personal achievement; it’s a platform to raise awareness about the issues plaguing townships.

“I want to show people from my community that we belong in spaces like marathons, not just as spectators,” he asserts.

“Our voices matter, and we deserve to be heard.”

Through his vlogs, Nsumbu shares his experiences growing up in the hood, aiming to inspire others to rise above their circumstances. “There’s beauty in the struggle,” he reflects, emphasising the lessons learned along the way.

“If I can do it, why can’t they? Transformation is possible, and limits only exist if you accept them.”

The impact of social media

Social media has played a pivotal role in Nsumbu’s journey, providing him with a platform to connect with a broader audience.

“It gave me a voice,” he states, allowing him to share his Running for Change campaign and engage with brands that resonate with his message.

“I’ve had people reach out to me, saying they started running or chasing their dreams because of something I posted. That means everything to me.”

Running for a greater purpose

When Nsumbu runs, he draws strength from his past, his community, and the dreams of those who never had the same opportunities.

“I run for something bigger than myself,” he shares, highlighting the importance of hope, movement, and mental health.

“I think about my younger self and the people who never got the same chances. I run for them.”

His commitment to social causes is evident in his involvement with initiatives like Obs Can Feed You and the Nyanga Hiking Club, which aim to uplift the unhoused community and provide outdoor experiences for youth.

“We’re not just giving food; we’re giving hope and a sense of belonging,” he explains.

Bridging the gap

Living in the city offers beauty and challenges. Nsumbu appreciates its diversity, from its stunning beaches to its rich cultural tapestry.

However, he is acutely aware of the stark inequalities that exist just minutes apart.

“That’s why I use my platform to bridge that gap in small but meaningful ways,” he states, underscoring his commitment to making a difference.

A message for the future

Nsumbu’s message to young people is one of empowerment: “You don’t have to wait for someone to open a door for you; start building your own.”

He encourages others to recognise the hidden advantages within their disadvantages and to own their stories.

“Your background doesn’t define you; your actions do,” he asserts.

Looking ahead

Nsumbu is excited about the future, with projects on the horizon that include a movie he co-wrote, co-directed, and co-produced under his production company, Starkosi Productions.

“I can’t wait for the world to see it,” he says with enthusiasm.

He is also relaunching his clothing brand, Forbidden Mind, which aims to raise awareness about pressing social issues.

His journey is a testament to the power of believing in oneself and using one’s voice to inspire others.

“We all have the power to change our narrative. It starts with us."