Behind every rising star is someone who first believed, and for Sean, it’s his mom, who’s doing everything she can to help him chase his dream
Boksburg, South Africa (22 August 2025) – Sean might only be 14, but he is already showing the kind of discipline and talent that many seasoned athletes spend years trying to build. Recently selected for the SAU13 Athletics team, voted Backline Player of the Year at his rugby club, and maintaining an A average at school, it is clear this young man is doing more than just showing promise. He is earning it.
It is no surprise, then, that a prestigious high school has offered him a partial scholarship to develop both his academic and athletic talents. The kind of opportunity that could change the trajectory of a young life and open doors that many kids only dream of.
“I think he just loves the challenge,” says Amanda, Sean’s mom. “Whether it’s running track or stepping onto the rugby field, he’s always asking, ‘How can I do better?’ That mindset is what makes him stand out.”
As a single mom, Amanda has been Sean’s biggest champion and driving him to early morning practices, encouraging him to focus on his studies, and cheering him on from the sidelines. After losing her IT job almost a year ago, she’s had to make some tough choices. The sale of their home was meant to help pay for Sean’s school transition, but legal delays have left them stuck and financially strained.
Still, Amanda is not giving up. In fact, she tracked down support through BackaBuddy, not only asking for handouts, but to learn how to fundraise and keep Sean’s dream alive.
With Sean’s 14th birthday just passed, family and supporters are rallying to give him the gift of opportunity. A small campaign has been launched encouraging people to donate R93, acknowledging the year Nelson Mandela turned 93, the same year Sean was born.
The goal is to get Sean through the school gates, onto the field, and into a future where nothing is out of reach.
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