Sandile Mkhize exemplifies unwavering resilience, boundless determination, and an infectious zest for life. While a spinal cord injury may have changed his trajectory, it did not determine his future. Instead, he innovatively pushed boundaries, challenged perceptions, and championed inclusivity. By participating in the Wings for Life World Run and excelling in the drone industry, he persistently breaks barriers, demonstrating that challenges can be overcome with the right mindset and support. We caught up with Sandile to get more insight into his journey.
- Your journey is incredibly inspiring — can you take us back to the moment your life changed and how you found strength in the face of adversity?
- I truly believe I wouldn't be the person I am today without the unwavering support of my friends and family. They've been a constant source of strength during challenging times. It's not always easy to support loved ones when they're struggling, and that's why my appreciation for them deepens with each passing day.
- What role has sport, particularly the Wings for Life World Run, played in reshaping your perspective on resilience and purpose?
- Exercise and movement have become a form of therapy for me, and I often see it as my playground. Losing some mobility has spurred my creativity in finding new ways to challenge myself, which has been surprisingly enjoyable.
- You’ve become a powerful voice for people with spinal cord injuries. What message do you hope to share through your advocacy and public presence?
- I want to emphasise that the world can present unique challenges, especially when it's not designed with diverse accessibility needs in mind. However, I encourage everyone to always seek out the good in people and the beauty in life. If we just look a little deeper, there's a wealth of richness and colour to discover.
- Many people might not understand the daily challenges of living with a spinal cord injury. What are some of the biggest misconceptions you’d like to break?
- Inclusivity should be the norm in every activity and space. With a combination of creativity, understanding, and patience, we can ensure everyone has the opportunity to contribute and be part of our communities. Even a dream like skydiving shouldn't be off-limits due to a spinal cord injury. It's about finding people who are willing to help you achieve it safely and adapt it to your needs.
- How has your involvement with Red Bull and the Wings for Life World Run helped amplify your story and bring awareness to spinal cord injury research?
- I'm deeply committed to finding a cure that can help others. I see my role as supporting that mission by raising awareness about the Wings for Life World Run. Encouraging participation is key because the more people who join, the more funds are raised for vital spinal cord injury research, bringing us closer to a cure.
- Your determination and positive outlook are truly remarkable. What keeps you motivated on difficult days?
- We all experience both good and bad days. My rule is to avoid having two bad days consecutively. When I need a boost, I make sure to connect with friends for a good laugh and a mental reset.
- What are some of your personal or professional goals that you’re currently working towards?
- I work in the drone industry and also dedicate my time to advocating for people with disabilities in my community. My goal in both areas is to create more opportunities for people with disabilities to contribute meaningfully and to thrive as productive members of society.
- Who are the key people or organisations that have played a vital role in your journey?
- My family has been my core support, alongside my supportive colleagues at work and the dedicated members of PB4C (Professionals & Business For Change).
- What advice would you give to someone facing a life-altering challenge, whether physical or emotional?
- It's perfectly okay to feel sadness during challenging times, but always remember that things do get better. Fight for the person you aspire to be, and keep in mind that progress is rarely a straight line.
- How can those looking to support spinal cord research and initiatives like Wings for Life get involved and make a difference?
- The best way to support is to sign up and run for those who can't. If you're in Centurion or Cape Town, you can join local runs. But the beauty of the Wings for Life World Run is that you can participate virtually from anywhere in the world!
Sandile Mkhize's story teaches us that adversity is not the end of the road; rather, it marks the beginning of a remarkable new journey. Whether through sport, advocacy, or simply finding joy in everyday life, his story is a testament to the power of perseverance and community. For those seeking to create an impact, backing initiatives such as the Wings for Life World Run goes beyond running; it signifies progress towards a future free from the limitations of spinal cord injuries. Register to run for those who can’t on Sunday, 04 May 2025, on https://www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com/en