Words! Mere words! How terrible they were! How clear, and vivid, and cruel! One could not escape from them. And yet what a subtle magic there was in them!Mere words! Was there anything so real as words?”

The article examines the ongoing inequality in women’s football across Africa. It highlights the  challenges it faces despite growing visibility and achievements like record attendance at the 2023 Women’s World Cup. While there are signs of progress, systemic financial neglect and gender discrimination by federations hinder the development of the women's game.

The article explores South Africa's emotional journey in the 2023 Rugby World Cup. It navigates through past tournaments, highlighting racial tensions and controversies, leading to the groundbreaking 2019 World Cup with Siya Kolisi as the first Black captain. Under Rassie Erasmus, the 2023 victory is unique for its team unity, diversity, and lighthearted atmosphere, standing out amidst political challenges.  

Stories of three remarkable women in football, rugby, and netball – champions both on and off the field. In preparation for the 2023 World Cup tournaments in football, rugby, and netball, Virgin Activate commissioned a captivating series of profiles that provided a unique perspective on the lives and accomplishments of exceptional women in these sports codes.

The last thing that Courage Adams remembers about his hometown of Benin City is that he used to play around in the streets. At 26 years old, Adams has accomplished a lot. He is the first ever Nigerian Pro BMX rider and he is considered one of the best street BMX riders in the world.

Now that he has found success, Adams is determined to help develop Nigeria’s burgeoning and exciting BMX scene.

At the 2023 FIBA World Cup, the South Sudan men's national basketball team made history by securing a spot for  Paris 2024, marking the nation's Olympic debut. The development of basketball in the country is all thanks to former NBA player Luol Deng.  From fleeing Sudan as a child to spearheading the development of South Sudanese basketball, Deng's journey reflects a commitment to rebuilding a country that was once notorious for waging Africa's longest war.

Arena co-owner Ayanda Mbele has turned car spinning into a family affair, taking the sport off the streets and giving aspiring spinners – particularly young women – a place to hone their skills.

 Despite the pandemic and limited funds, Wheelchair Basketball South Africa successfully staged a women’s wheelchair basketball tournament. With stable sponsorship deals, the sport will strive. 

 Young Stunna, real name Sandile Msimango, is a prominent amapiano artist known for hits like 'Adiwele' and 'Bopha'. Transitioning from hip-hop to amapiano in 2012, he built a following through unpaid gigs and mentorship from Kabza De Small and DJ Maphorisa. His unique fashion style is influenced by his great-grandmother, a fashion designer, and the Daveyton fashion scene. Stunna, who doesn't use a stylist, is a sneaker enthusiast with over 50 pairs and collaborates with brands like Redbat. While touring globally, he shops at exclusive stores like Kick Game in London. Known for his sunglasses, he blends sportswear with streetwear, favoring meaningful, vintage accessories. 

 Nigeria is a source of rich history and culture and its influence extends beyond its borders. Formed in 2013, the Emmy Kasbit brand aims to highlight and capture the heritage of Igbo people through clothes. The Akwete fabrics and prints that are redolent of old traditions serve as the backbone for the clothing label. Its striking and bold garments have been worn by artists and public figures worldwide. 

Muziwakhe McVictor Mazibuko or simply known as Muzi is a multi-talented artist whose music is not constrained by genre or by location. But he also has a keen interest in fashion as it represents his interests outside of music. Mzansi’s golden child of electronic music sits down with Lethabo Nxumalo to talk about his personal style. 

 Alexa Schempers grew up with a mother who was a fashion designer and she would read every fashion magazine she could get her hands on. Fashion is in her blood and by the time she was a teenager, she knew that not only would it be a career path, but it would also be her calling.

 Lagos Fashion Week is Africa’s biggest fashion multi-day event and it attracts fashion designers, buyers, consumers, stylists, photographers and filmmakers from all over the continent and the world.  The week is not just runways shows. It also involves workshops, exhibitions and retail experiences in the name of empowering and uplifting up-and-coming designers. Ensuring that everything is up to par and that the event runs smoothly is the production team. Andrea Obienu, head of production, has been working for Lagos Fashion Week since its inception and has seen everything under the sun when it comes to putting things together. 

Their entrepreneurial ventures may be in a glamorous industry, but these three woman are more focused on the grit required to be great