Wednesday,
Durban, South Africa – Thousands of runners are gearing up for the ultimate test of endurance at the 2025 Comrades Marathon, Tier 1 sponsor, Cell C is showing up with a powerful message: that purpose and performance go hand in hand.
At this year's Comrades Marathon Expo, Cell C is redefining what it means to be a sponsor, stepping beyond traditional branding to deliver a high-impact, high-energy experience that puts community, connection and social impact at the heart of the race.
With a bold approach that fuses sport, speed, and social good, Cell C's activation brings to life a compelling idea: every stride can power something greater – just like every megabit of faster data can unlock the unstoppable.
The interactive challenge invites visitors to step onto a treadmill or sprint pad and test their speed against Cell C's improved network performance in real-time.
But this is no ordinary contest, it is also running for a good cause. Each participant selects a Cell C-supported charity before starting their run. The faster they go, the more Cell C donates on their behalf – converting athletic effort into a tangible contribution to community causes.
Speaking on the initiative, Cell C's Chief Marketing Officer, Melanie Forbes said: "We're proud to be continuing our journey with the Comrades Marathon by not only celebrating the grit of every athlete but by contributing meaningfully to the communities that support them. This is about more than running, it's about enabling good, together."
Throughout the three-day expo, participants can see their names, chosen charities, and funds raised displayed live on the leaderboard, creating an environment of healthy competition and collective giving. Social sharing allows runners to post their results instantly, spreading the message of 'Nothing Should Stop You' far beyond the expo floor.
"We're bringing our network to life – literally, but this activation isn't just about showcasing speed - by linking human speed with our network performance, we're demonstrating how faster connections – and actions – can enable real, meaningful good.
The challenge transforms network performance into a relatable, human experience, and in true Comrades spirit, it places collective upliftment at the centre of competition, Melanie Forbes said.
Cell C's presence at the Expo will also be about turning every step into a statement. The faster you go, the more we give to charities that matter, because nothing should stop you – from making a difference.
Can you match our speed and power a cause? Join us at the Comrades Expo and show what unstoppable looks like. #NothingShouldStopYou
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About Cell C
Cell C Limited is a proudly South African customer-first mobile operator that promotes digital inclusion by delivering world-class products and services to empower and connect people to digital services, by harnessing the power of technology that delights customers and enhances their lives.
Cell C is a leading mobile provider in South Africa offering a wide range of products and services, including voice, data, device and SIM deals to more than 20 million customers.
