Ntando Mahlangu made his international debut at the IWAS Under 23 World Games 2015 at just 13 years of age and the following year, went on to win four gold medals including two World Records (T42 400m and 800m) at the IWAS Under 23 World Games 2016 in Prague, Czech Republic.

Ntando continued on the international pathway representing South Africa at the Rio 2016 Paralympic Games where he won silver in the T42 200m. 

Now the upcoming track star has used his sporting success to support other young people in Africa. 

The 15-year-old has teamed up with Cartoon Network to launch the 2017 anti-bullying campaign, CN Buddy Network, in Africa. The initiative, which kicks off on 23 June, encourages children and young people to ‘Be a Buddy, Not a Bully’. The campaign aims to raise awareness around bullying, empowering children of Africa to take positive action against discrimination and bullying.

Ntando takes the baton from gold Olympic medalist and world record holder, Wayde van Niekerk who represented the initiative since its launch in Africa, last year.

“What an honour to follow in the footsteps of Wayde van Niekerk, CN Buddy Network’s brand ambassador for 2016. Wayde is an amazing athlete and I aspire to be like him one day. To learn that he was once bullied, was an opportunity for me to be brave and speak out about my experience in order to raise awareness around discrimination regarding disabilities,” says Ntando Mahlangu.

“I am proud of who I am and what I have accomplished and I hope my bully can see me now! I was so excited when Cartoon Network approached me, I appreciate having the opportunity to inspire other kids like me, to be proud of who they are. I know what it feels like to be bullied, it’s not cool. If you are being bullied, speak up so that together, we can beat the bully!"

IWAS looks forward to welcoming Ntando and his teammates to his third IWAS Games later this year.