Johannesburg - The roaring of engines permeated the crisp morning air on Thursday as the Bikers for Mandela brigade geared up for the road ahead.
The celebrity and advocacy participants in the now annual humanitarian ride, stood alongside their motorcycles, parked along a busy street in Lorentzville.
The group of about 60 riders included late president Nelson Mandela’s former private secretary and convener of the ride, Zelda la Grange, as well as Metro FM newsreader and Angie Khumalo.
Thato Sikwane, better known as radio and television personality DJ Fresh, was once again part of the crew. His wife and three young children are joining him on the five day journey and will follow the bikers in a Land Rover throughout the trip.
Just before the group's departure, they were joined by Gauteng premier David Makhura, who helped them refurbish and plant a vegetable garden at Bethany House which houses abused women and children.
This is in line with overall theme which places a large focus on gender-based violence: Inspire Confidence.
‘Leave this world a better place’
As Makhura wished the team well for their trip, he also highlighted the important work they are doing for the vulnerable people in society.
“Too many women and children are subjected to the terrible scourge of violence,” he said. “We can all leave this world a better place than we found it.”
As 10am approched the popular DJ and his biker counterparts zipped up their leathers, buckled up their boots and strapped on their helmets, ready for departure.
To celebrate Mandela, who gave 67 years of his life fighting for the rights of humanity, the bikers will travel and spend time doing charity work in several areas including Nelspruit and Barberton.
This year, the group will also for the first time take the campaign to Mozambique, as part of the Goodbye Malaria campaign which seeks to educate people about one of the biggest killers on the African continent.
Their journey will end in Meetse a Bophelo in Mamelodi East on Mandela Day which will be celebrated on Monday.
The Star