Lifa Hlongwa is being honoured for a life lived with great purpose, driven to succeed despite facing challenges and leaving everyone a little more inspired than when he met them.
South Africa (15 January 2025) – Lifa Hlongwa was a determined young man who refused to let life’s circumstances dictate his future. The inspiring young athlete sadly passed away earlier this month, but his life story will live on as a beacon of hope for young athletes who face adversity and challenges in their abilities.
When speaking to Lifa in 2023, he described himself as a determined and stubborn young man, which he had said played a major role in his rehabilitation process. He shared his story with Good Things Guy in 2023, just after attending the 17th Gavirate International Para-Rowing Regatta in Italy.
One day, a tragic accident changed his life forever, but he refused to let it define him. Lifa was playing at a club rugby match when a bad tackle left him paralysed from the chest down. It turned out he had dislocated and fractured a part of his spine. The injury was bad, but with immediate treatment and physiotherapy, Lifa’s chances of walking again were high.
He worked hard and, before long, had regained the use of his arms, hands and legs. He needed to walk with support, and while he was slower than he once was, he kept moving.
It was this determination and the shift he made in his life that will live on for decades to come. After losing his mobility, he shifted his focus from rugby to rowing, continuing to live his life as a dedicated athlete. His talent for sports even earned him a full sports bursary from the University of Johannesburg, where he became a fierce competitor.
“Becoming disabled has afforded me the great privilege of learning to have a special understanding of the endless possibilities of the human spirit to overcome challenges. Helping motivate others to tap into their true potential in order to make a meaningful contribution to their lives and the world is an endeavour I wish to continuously embody and reflect in all my works.”
Lifa graduated in 2024, and his whole family were excited to share the happy news. This was another huge milestone and moment to inspire hope in others who face the same adversities, overcoming injury and finding a new path.
Hundreds of people have joined to share their heartfelt condolences to the Hlongwa family, who shared the loss on Lifa’s Instagram. The University of Johannesburg honoured Lifa’s life with Mr. Sizwe Ndlovu, the UJ rowing club manager, beautifully honouring Lifa’s life. The university shared that Lifa was nominated for the 2023 UJ Sportsman of the Year Award after competing in three international regattas but didn’t win.
“It is with profound sadness that we bid farewell to Lifa, a young man of incredible talent and boundless determination. Lifa was more than just an athlete; he embodied the spirit of resilience and excellence that we strive to nurture in every rower. His journey was marked by a relentless pursuit of greatness, unwavering commitment to his sport, and a heart full of humility,”
“Beyond his accolades, Lifa inspired everyone around him with his warmth, positivity, and quiet strength. He taught us all the power of perseverance and grace, reminding us that true champions are those who rise above challenges with dignity and courage.”
“As we mourn his passing, we also celebrate the extraordinary legacy he leaves behind. Lifa’s memory will live on in the hearts of his teammates, coaches, and all who were fortunate enough to know him. We will remember him with love and respect. May his soul rest in peace,” said Mr. Sizwe Ndlovu, Manager: UJ Rowing Club.
Lifa spent a great deal of time with Mr Ndlovu during the filming of The Odyssey Row by Riaan Manser in 2018, which took several rowers on an adventure of a lifetime. Lifa and Mr Sizwe were both part of the extensive boot camp before a final winner was chosen to join Manser on a rowing adventure of a lifetime.
Jeff Ayliffe, who worked on the selection for the show, reflected on his time spent with Lifa during the boot camp, saying, “his larger than life smile greeted us throughout that week. He was such a beautiful soul.”
Lifa may be gone far too soon, but the light of his smile, his endless determination and the joy he spread to those around him, will live on in the memories of all who loved him and were blessed to meet him. The family will be hosting Lifa’s funeral on the 18th of January 2025, laying him to rest and giving his friends and loved ones a chance to say goodbye.
Our hearts go out to every person who loved Lifa; he will be sorely missed.
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Source: Jeff Ayliffe / UJ / Various – Linked Above
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