One on one with Isaac Mwangonde
Former Mr. Malawi Isaac Mwangonde (IM) is the founder of Veterans Sport Association of Malawi (VSAM) which, as the name suggests, aims at promoting all sports disciplines in the country by engaging veterans. SINGAYAZI KAMINJOLO (SK) had a chat with Mwangonde to find out VSAM’s vision.
SK: There is already another sports body run by veteran footballers. What’s new about the VSAM?
IM:
The VSAM is different in that it encompasses all sports disciplines. What we are trying to do is to locate former stars in various sports disciplines to use their knowledge and experience to help the new generation. We have people such as John Mwathiwa from track and field events, former gymnastic champions Oscar and Brenda Thomson and many others from boxing, bodybuilding and football. Such people have experience that can change sports in the country for the better.
SK: How are you going to operate?
IM:
If you look at the importance of sports in Malawi and the globe at large, especially in connection to human health, you will appreciate that Malawi lacks an organisation such as VSAM to promote, maintain and encourage youngsters to realise their potential through the engagement of those who already excelled in sports. We believe in continuity and for that to happen, we need the expertise and experience of those who were good in sports before. Those forgotten veterans.
SK: Your major task?
To locate veterans, appeal and convince the veterans that they are still valuable to the development of sports in this country. We will work with all sports associations to identify gaps and areas where the veterans can fill.
SK: What is your background in sports?
IM:
I was Mr. Malawi from 1997-2001. I am a veteran in bodybuilding and I have a diploma in physical education and science arts. I also have a certificate in sports science and management from the University of Pretoria. I am also an expert tutor in boxing, gymnastic, karate, aerobics. I am the founder of the Weightlifting and Body Building Association of Malawi. I was inspired by actor Arnold Schwarzenegger, when he was the universal weightlifting bodybuilding champion.
SK: Free to share with us a little about your family?
IM:
I come from T/A Kyungu in Karonga. I was born in a family of 11 children. I am married and have three sons and a daughter. I am Christian. In my free time, I like to pray to God or gather with the congregation of God.
