Old Mutual Dash team demonstrates grit

The much-anticipated Nedbank Desert Dash takes place in little over two weeks, and Old Mutual Namibia has sponsored the first-ever all-black team to participate.
The team consists of Vicky Dan, Winnie Mukupuki, Sofia Simon, and Jacky Shipena. To date, there has never been full participation of an all-black team in the Dash.
The Old Mutual Namibia-sponsored team aims to change this status quo and empower fellow female cycling enthusiasts.
Dan, who set a goal to put together an all-black team to partake in the 2022 Nedbank Desert Dash is excited about what she, Mukupuki, Simon, and Shipena are set to do this year. As she reflects, Dan highlighted that the preparation for this year’s race has not been easy.
“Once the first hurdle of getting the team together was set, there was an urgent need to find an organisation that would sponsor our ambitious goal. I must say with pride that Old Mutual as my employer really made me proud when they came on board to make our dream a reality,” she said.
The team is committed and believes in promoting women’s participation in cycling and to encourage the enrichment of living a healthy, active lifestyle while inspiring the girl child.
Additionally, “one of the fundamental lessons learnt was that if you never ask, the answer will always be no. Whether it was for the ladies to join the team on this historic ride or for Old Mutual to sponsor us. It was through having a leap of faith that we are finally here and ready to do Old Mutual and the nation proud.”
During the official handover, Mignon du Preez, Executive: Marketing, Public Affairs and Sustainability, emphasised that it was a proud moment for Old Mutual Namibia to be associated with the four ladies.
“As Old Mutual, we are proud of all our employees who will be taking part in the Nedbank Desert Dash. We are just as proud of the ladies who will be cycling under our banner and know that on 9 December they will make history.”
Old Mutual Namibia’s sponsorship assists the team in covering their accommodation, travelling and attire needs which will ensure they are at ease when they partake in the Dash.