Sindile Mavundla, affectionately known as Cape Town’s “Bicycle Mayor,” is on a mission to empower young girls in the Khayelitsha township by introducing them to the transformative power of cycling. As the founder of the Khaltsha Cycling Academy, Mavundla dedicates his time to teaching first-time riders, particularly young girls from underserved communities, how to ride a bike. His goal is to provide them with an alternative means of transport and a chance to engage in a sport that can open new opportunities.
“Most girls in the township don’t have access to many sports options,” Mavundla explained. “We’ve seen that cycling can change lives, giving them not only a mode of transportation but also a sense of freedom and confidence.” Many of the academy’s students previously had to walk long distances to get to school, often over several kilometers, in an area where infrastructure and resources are scarce.
Khayelitsha, situated around 30 kilometers from Cape Town’s city center, is the largest shantytown in the area. Its crowded streets are lined with makeshift homes made from wood, iron, and concrete—starkly contrasting with the city’s affluent suburbs. Here, opportunities for recreational activities and sports are few and far between, particularly for girls.
The “Bicycle Mayor” title was awarded to Mavundla by Bycs, a global cycling advocacy organization based in Amsterdam. Bycs has appointed bicycle mayors in several African cities, including Nairobi, Gaborone, Lagos, and Abuja. Mavundla’s role is to promote cycling as a viable and empowering activity for all, but his focus on young girls in Khayelitsha sets him apart.
The Khaltsha Cycling Academy, which Mavundla launched in 2022, now has 30 members, many of whom are young girls eager to learn how to ride. The academy’s work has inspired others in the community, leading to a growing interest among local girls who want to experience the joy and independence that cycling can bring.
One heartwarming moment at the academy captured the spirit of Mavundla’s mission. As a young girl attempted to ride a bike for the first time, she stumbled and fell. With encouragement from her peers and Mavundla’s guidance, she got back up and tried again. This time, she managed to ride confidently, her hands raised triumphantly in the air as her friends cheered her on.
“It’s very rare to see girls cycling in this area,” said Iviwe Yako, a member of the academy. “Seeing them ride bikes here in Khayelitsha is one of the best things I’ve witnessed.” For these girls, learning to cycle is more than just mastering a new skill; it’s a pathway to self-reliance and a newfound sense of agency in a community where such opportunities are limited.
Mavundla’s academy is not just about teaching cycling skills but also about fostering a supportive environment where girls can gain confidence and resilience. “You are almost there. Now push hard,” Mavundla urged the young rider who was learning for the first time. His encouragement and dedication are helping to build a generation of young women who see themselves as capable and strong, both on and off the bike.
Through his work, Mavundla is not only promoting a culture of cycling but also challenging gender norms and creating a more inclusive space for girls to explore and grow. His vision for the future is clear: to see more girls riding confidently through the streets of Khayelitsha, knowing that they have the power to push boundaries and achieve their dreams.
READ MORE: