Born with a fire for dance in a small farming town, Sam Makhubo has now secured the opportunity of a lifetime on a Disney Cruise Line.
Johannesburg, South Africa (20 February 2026) – A humble background is nothing to despise, especially when you possess the inner fire to pave a path toward incredible opportunities. Samuel Makhubo knows this better than anyone.
Born and raised in the farming town of Leandra, Mpumalanga, Sam grew up finding joy in the simplest of things. It was there that he discovered a passion for dance, seizing every possible chance to move.
“Even in day care, dance was part of every play and activity we did,” he tells us, recalling how his teacher even included a special choreographed piece in a nativity play just to cater to his love for the art.
Growing up wasn’t without its challenges, but one thing remained constant. Sam’s love and skill, which were nurtured both in the home and at school from a very young age.
During family gatherings, he gladly took centre stage in the living room to entertain his loved ones. The incentive of earning a bit of pocket money provided some extra motivation, he humorously shares.
Sam even got the opportunity to audition for the renowned South African theatre production, Africa uMoja. However, due to financial difficulties, he wasn’t able to go further with it.
“I was gutted when that happened. I had hoped that opportunity would push me to greater heights and become a success in the dance and entertainment industry,” Sam shares.
But this dancer and fitness enthusiast was always meant to leap and soar high. He recently attended an interview with the training institute, London Wellness Academy, for a fitness instructor position.
“One of the other things that they were looking for over and above being a fitness instructor was a personal trainer and a Zumba instructor, which I am qualified in both. At the interview, they initially asked me three questions: whether I was a qualified massage therapist – I said No, whether I was a personal trainer – I said yes and whether I was a dance instructor – I then confirmed I was a licensed Zumba instructor. They took an interest in me.”
It was by making an impression at that very interview that Sam secured the opportunity for a nine-month contract on a Disney Wish cruise ship with One Spa World.
“Working on this cruise would mean the world to me because I am not doing it for myself but for my siblings, especially my sister. Throughout everything, she has always been in my corner. Now, I need to be her support system, too, by helping provide for her son, my nephew.
“My long-term plan is to go on three tours on the cruise and save up enough to open my own fitness/beauty business so that I can have a sustainable income and support my siblings. I’ve always wanted to work on a cruise ship. To make a living while travelling the world. This opportunity affords me this, and it would be a dream come true,” Sam says.
He is currently raising funds while busy with his pre-training in Cape Town in preparation for the job. He requires financial assistance towards several essentials and accommodation while in the Mother City, as well as funds towards his online and in-person training, medicals, Seaman’s Discharge Book and visa application by 9 March.
The ship will be departing from Florida. Sam will need to report on or before 15 March 2026 to the U.S. port in Port Canaveral to begin his exciting venture.
To help this talented dance instructor set sail and make the most of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, consider leaving a donation here.
Sources: Samuel Makhubo
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