“This must end!” – These were the words of former Banyana Banyana footballer Portia Modise after addressing a group of young people about the dangers of alcohol and drug abuse while attending the World Drug Day awareness campaign in the popular township of Soweto.
Portia, well known for her exceptional footwork on the football field, alongside TS Galaxy star player, Bernard Parker are the proud ambassadors of Clinix, a healthcare group specialising in providing quality healthcare services and advice to people across the country.
Entertainment publication ZiMoja reports, that in collaboration with the organisation, Portia encouraged the youth not to fall victim to their circumstances and surroundings. She later shared some of the experiences she had to endure that ultimately turned her into the national sports star she has become.
“My community, plagued by poverty, turns to drugs and alcohol for solace, perpetuating a cycle of trauma. This must end.
“Many of us have relatives who are known for their drinking habits, and we’ve normalised this in our society, which is unacceptable.”
According to Briefly News, Portia has been very involved with investing time into youth development since retiring from soccer. It is reported that she is especially involved with women’s football and education and further touched on this during her speech.
“This campaign addresses not just substance abuse, but also mental health. I strongly believe that had I not maintained strong resolve throughout my career, I could have easily succumbed to the harsh realities of our football world.”
