CrossFit Masiphumulele – Where Fitness Becomes a Force for Good
At Octiv, we believe that fitness can change lives. Each year, we shine a spotlight on a client who is using fitness to uplift, inspire, and make an impact far beyond the gym floor.
This year, we are proud to announce CrossFit Masiphumulele (CF Masi) as the winner of the 2025 Octiv Impact Award—a nonprofit CrossFit affiliate in Cape Town’s south that’s redefining what it means to build a gym, and a community.
Watch their story below:
A Gym That Builds More Than Muscle
Co-founded by Gabriel Fisher and Kristin Zylstra, CF Masi is rooted in the heart of Masiphumulele, a low-income community outside Cape Town. What started as an outreach fitness program to support local youth has now become a thriving gym, family, and life-changing mission.
At CF Masi, classes start with spiritual inspiration. After a powerful workout, athletes are fed a meal. Members not only train for physical health—they learn discipline, responsibility, and what it means to belong.
“It’s not about being the fittest. It’s about being the best version of yourself,” says Kristin. “And doing it together.”
From Outreach to Opportunity
CF Masi runs the L327 Fitness Program, inspired by Lamentations 3:27: “It is good for a man to bear the yoke while he is young.” This initiative provides free access to fitness, food, and mentorship for local teens and young adults from Ocean View and Masi.
Two program graduates are now employed at the gym—Pascal as a CrossFit Level 1 coach, and Diego, who helps manage the facility while studying for his own certification.
Big Dreams, Bigger Impact
Their next challenge? Space. CF Masi is running near capacity, offering back-to-back classes throughout the day. With more equipment, more coaches, and a bigger venue, they can continue serving the community—and training the next generation of leaders.
Watch their story below:
The Octiv Impact Award
The Octiv Impact Award celebrates a client who goes beyond business—using fitness to build people, purpose, and positive change. As part of the award, CF Masi receives six months of free access to Octiv’s gym management software to help them scale their impact.
“CF Masi embodies the true spirit of CrossFit—community, grit, and heart,” says Mark Fawzy, Octiv CEO, “We are proud to be part of their journey.”
Want to Help?
Support their mission, donate gear, or just share their story. Visit CrossFit Masiphumulele’s website.
