A JOURNEY OF RESILIENCE XOLISA MAKUBALO’S TRIUMPH

BY LONWABO MARELE

I want to play a role in mentoring children from the township. I want to be a practical example to those that I lead. To show the way and go the way with them.

GRATITUDE FILLS XOLISA MAKUBALO’S HEART as he holds his Sports Science degree from the University of the Western Cape (UWC). It wasn’t an easy road, but with support from his university and friends he conquered the challenges that stood in his way.

BALANCING HIS STUDIES while providing for his family was no small feat. Makubalo’s willpower was put to the test and he emerged stronger than ever. Yet, there was a nagging thought that lingered in his mind – there would be more family members at a traditional ceremony than there would be at his graduation. Through it all, Makubalo found solace in his faith, thanking God for granting him the strength, sanity and patience to understand his purpose and direction in life.

BEFORE EMBARKING ON HIS SPORTS SCIENCE JOURNEY, Makubalo ventured into Environmental and Geographical Sciences at the University of Cape Town. During his third year, however, he realised his true passion lay elsewhere. He decided to drop out and follow his heart.

BACK HOME IN KHAYELITSHA, Makubalo became a rider for the Velokhaya Life Cycling Academy. But he didn’t stop there. He volunteered as a coach for two years, driven by a desire to give back to his community. His determination paid off when UWC approached him to join its ranks. Makubalo seized the opportunity, applying to the university to pursue his education while also playing for its Varsity Football team.

TODAY, MAKUBALO STANDS AS A SHINING EXAMPLE of perseverance and resilience. He is not only the first in his family’s generation to graduate but a source of motivation and inspiration for his community. “I want to play a part, I want to play a role in mentoring children from the township. I want to be a practical example to those that I lead. To show the way and go the way with them,” he says. “That is the life I want. I don’t just mentor, I live among them and show them it is possible.”

MAKUBALO’S DREAMS GO BEYOND PERSONAL SUCCESS. He aspires to bring about positive change through sport and community upliftment. “It’s everything to me, it’s life. I am pouring out my all to the community. I am passionate about this. You see a change in the kids and get feedback from the parents about how their children have changed. I bless God for that,” he says.