Jepkosgei inspired by humanitarian award to serve more

The 2007 World 800m champion Janeth Jepkosgei says she feels inspired to broaden her engagements in humanitarian practices and socio-economic development after winning the 2016 Pan-African Humanitarian Award on Sport and Charity.

Jepkosgei has been invited alongside 300 other highly recognized leaders in various sectors of industry, government, business and humanity from 27 African countries to a leadership summit in Dubai on Saturday evening where she will be honored for her contributions in giving back to the society through sport.

While urging her fellow sports stars to stretch back helping hands to the society, the 2008 Beijing silver medalist says that of all her contributions to the society and the sport, her biggest thrill has been witnessing the success of 2013 world 800m champion, Eunice Sum, who is her training partner and whom she’s mentored.

“The career we have does not last forever and when you really love sports you want to see other people close to you prosper as well. Every time I see Sum cross the tape it gives me so much joy because I know just how far we’ve come and how hard she’s worked for her success.

“It’s such a blessing to feel appreciated and the fact that someone can notice whatever good it is you’re doing for the society is amazing,” the 2006 Commonwealth champion told Citizen Digital.

Jepkosgei adds that her story is that of humble beginnings and through the Janeth Jepkosgei Athletics Youth Training camp, she helps mold and inspire kids to follow their athletics dreams.

“I grew up in a humble family, never went to fancy boarding schools but my dad always told me I had a future in athletics. I was lucky to join Sing’ore Girls High School which had a great athletics culture and it is there that I developed my talent and started supporting others who came to me.

“I understand that not everyone is talented in sports so those who have challenges in paying their school fees I try to find sponsors for them.

She adds that she started her training as only an innovation meant to serve her community but ended up expanding it to serve the entire Nandi County region.

The summit, popularly known as the prestigious Night of Honour, will include workshops, conference sessions, award presentation and panel discussions on the success stories and experiences needed to bring a positive change in global charity and social environments.