August – September 2024

How has your study routine changed since August?

My study routine has changed to accommodate the demands of the process of writing a Masters dissertation. I am focused on establishing a structured approach to my routine to remain consistent in the work that needs to be completed for the write up of the thesis.

What new skills or knowledge have you acquired during this time?

I am currently in the process of learning how to make use of atlas ti to analyse my data collected for my thesis. I have spent time engaging with the Division for Postgraduate Studies workshops that are conducted online for postgraduate students at UWC.

How has the scholarship affected your academic performance?

Receiving the scholarship has had a major impact on my academic performance, by allowing me to focus on my Masters dissertation. The financial support has reduced the burden of tuition and living costs. This allows me to focus more on my studies and has enabled me to dedicate more time to research, coursework, and personal academic development.

What challenges have you overcome recently?

Recently, one of the most significant challenges I’ve overcome has been managing the balance between my demanding academic workload and maintaining my well-being. Adjusting to an increased level of independence with my research and managing deadlines has been challenging however, a structured approach to my day and remaining consistent with my research project work plan, milestones and tasks has been the key to completing this phase of my dissertation.

How have you balanced your time between studies and leisure activities?

I make use of the 8-8-8 rule as much as I possibly can, this technique requires me to schedule 8 hours of sleep, 8 hours of work and 8 hours of recreation. Balancing time between studies and leisure activities has been a crucial part of maintaining my overall well-being and academic performance.

What projects or initiatives have you supported or helped shape recently?

Most recently, focusing on youth development, I presented at the Laureus Sport for Good Youth Summit on employability through sport for development. As chairperson of the Youth Network for Sport, Development and Peace and the Youth Coordinator for the Foundation, we recently conducted the 11th Annual Sport and Peace Conference which also included an Antibullying and Safeguarding training for all in the sport for development industry.

How has your perspective on equal opportunities changed?

The umbrella focus of my research is inclusion and levelling the playing field for marginalised groups in sport and society at large. There is a gap in the research where inclusion is concerned, therefore we need to have equal access to sport for marginalised groups, particularly persons with disabilities. This is vital for the implementation of the South African National Sport and Recreation Plan.
My perspectives have broadened on the access to equal opportunities. I’ve come to see how critical grassroots sport and programmes, such as Kulu Manzi, are in leveling the playing field for individuals who might otherwise face barriers to education and career advancement.
I am more committed to encourage growth and development using sport as an enabler to foster inclusivity and provide youth with the resources to create opportunities in the field of sport for development.

What new networks or contacts have you established?

Since starting my Master’s programme and receiving the scholarship, I’ve had the opportunity to connect with a variety of new contacts who have enriched my academic and professional journey. This includes the MEC of sport in the Western Cape (Ricardo Mackenzie) as well as the Chief Director of Sport and Recreation in the Western Cape (Dr. Lyndon Bouah). Working closely with the UNESCO Chair in Sport, Development, Peace and Olympic Education, Prof. Marion Keim, has also enhanced my academic abilities through research, project management and event coordination.
I’ve also connected with other recipients of the Kulu Manzi scholarship which has helped to create a supportive network of peers who share similar goals and challenges.

How did you follow the 2024 Olympics, and which sports particularly interested you?

My favourite sport at the Olympics is Gymnastics and all its disciplines.

Which athletes from Team RSA did you particularly admire and why?

Bayanda Walaza is an athlete from Team RSA that I admire because of his achievements at the young age of 18 years. He won silver in the 4×100 meter relay and exemplified the values of Olympism.