On June 24, 2023, the Wanderers Stadium in Johannesburg hosted a grand celebration of the International Day of Yoga, an annual event that aims to raise awareness worldwide of the many benefits of practicing yoga. The event was organized by the Alfeco Foundation, a social responsibility arm of the Alfeco Group/Holdings, a leading integrated metals and energy company in South Africa

The Alfeco Foundation invited over 200 children from the nearby Alexandra Township, one of the poorest and most densely populated urban areas in the country, to participate in the yoga sessions and be exposed to a healthy lifestyle. The children were also treated to a nutritious lunch, interactive health stalls, diverse food options, and a cultural showcase of Indian handicrafts, decor, and artefacts

The yoga sessions were led by certified instructors from various yoga schools and styles, such as Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, and Bikram. The instructors taught the children basic postures, breathing methods, and meditation techniques that can improve their physical fitness, mental well-being, and stress reduction. The children also learned about the history and philosophy of yoga, which originated in ancient India as a holistic approach to health and well-being

The event was attended by several dignitaries and celebrities, including the Consul General of India in Johannesburg, Mahesh Kumar, who praised the Alfeco Foundation for its initiative and said that yoga is a gift from India to the world. He also said that yoga can foster peace, harmony, and tolerance among people of different backgrounds and cultures

The Chief Executive Officer of Alfeco Holdings, Sachin Ahuja, said that the event was part of the company’s vision to make a positive impact on society and the environment through responsible investing and sustainable development. He said that the company is committed to supporting education, health, sports, arts, and culture in the communities where it operates. He also said that the company is proud to celebrate International Yoga Day with the children of Alexandra and hopes to inspire them to pursue their dreams and aspirations

The event was a huge success and received positive feedback from the participants and the media. The children expressed their gratitude to the Alfeco Foundation for giving them an opportunity to learn and enjoy yoga. They also said that they felt more relaxed, energized, and happy after the yoga sessions. Some of them even said that they would like to continue practicing yoga at home or at school

The Alfeco Foundation plans to organize more events and programs related to yoga and wellness in the future. It also hopes to collaborate with other organizations and stakeholders to promote yoga as a way of life for everyone