Pretoria’s ‘Life Changers’ Lace Up to Empower Tomorrow’s Healthcare Professionals

Seven health sciences staff members on one massive mission. The ‘Life Changers’ are hitting the road at the upcoming Two Oceans Marathon to turn every stride into a stepping stone for the next generation.

Pretoria, South Africa (08 April 2026) – The future depends on the young people trying to find their way today, and to ensure their success, seven staff members from the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Pretoria (UP), known as the Life Changers, are lacing up for the Two Oceans Marathon.

They will be running 21km, 56km, and for some, both, all in support of one powerful goal: helping their students succeed!

One of the group’s seasoned runners, Prof Ericka Noelle L’Abbé, will participate in her 13th Two Oceans. This year, her run will be about much more than just achieving a personal best; it aims to help students overcome financial barriers and complete their studies.

“I’ve been part of this race since 2009, missing only two due to illness. Oceans remains the highlight of my running year, and I value the incredible community it brings together,” she says.

For Dr Enriqué Ashford Francis of the Department of Family Medicine, running is something he only took seriously in 2024, and he will be doing his first Two Oceans Ultra Marathon in a series of other big races this year.

“Running is my way of proving that with commitment and discipline, you can conquer any challenge and achieve any dream. I am excited to run alongside my fellow #LifeChangers as we support our Faculty’s talented students and make a meaningful difference,” Francis shares.

Prof Matthys van Aardt from the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology will be running both the 21km and 56km races.

“This year, I return to take on both the ultra and half marathon. I run to honour God, to make my family proud, and to help create opportunities that can change students’ lives.”

Every step each member of the group takes this Saturday, and every rand raised will go towards the University’s Life Changers Fund to support students in covering their education costs and associated expenses.

This fund is dedicated to helping students afford university fees and essential resources needed to complete their training in the current year and beyond. The bulk of the funds will be allocated to supporting tuition fees, ensuring that students can focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress.

Additionally, the fund will assist students from disadvantaged backgrounds who face significant financial challenges that adversely affect their academic performance.

To support this cause and help high-performing underprivileged students realise their dream of one day becoming South Africa’s future healthcare professionals, donate here.

Sources: Faculty of Health Sciences – University of Pretoria

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