For Samkelo Maisela, rugby offered lessons in leadership and discipline and a space to heal when therapy wasn’t an option. It’s his dedication to this very sport that opened the door to bursary funding to secure a bright future.
Grahamstown, South Africa (26 October 2025) – Growing up as a young boy in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, Samkelo Maisela often witnessed his peers finish high school only to lose their way or fall into what he calls a “rabbit hole of lost ambition.”
Determined to rewrite that story for himself, despite losing his father at a young age, Samkelo sought opportunities to rise above his circumstances. Sport, specifically rugby, became his anchor.
For Samkelo, rugby is more than a game. It taught him confidence, discipline, and a sense of purpose, proving that dedication could open doors beyond the field.
He made it into Rhodes University, where he dedicated himself to his studies and Rhodes University Rugby.
He experienced a setback when he lost his NSFAS funding after completing his first degree. However, his years of dedication and leadership were recognised in 2024 when he received the Ally Weakley Memorial Bursary.
“It felt incredible to know that after years of giving my all for Rhodes University Rugby, someone noticed my commitment. My talent is now funding my passion and my future,” he tells Rhodes University.
“In rugby, only the captain speaks to the referee. That’s taught me restraint, leadership, and accountability,” he explains.
As captain of the Rhodes University Rugby Stallions, he carries responsibility with humility, representing not just himself, but his team, his university, and his community.
Beyond the game, rugby has been a healing space for Samkelo.
“I could never afford therapy, but sport became my escape. Coaching young kids at St Andrew’s Prep now does the same. It keeps me grounded and reminds me why I love the game,” he says.
Looking ahead, Samkelo hopes to use his law degree to protect young athletes from exploitation, as many youngsters don’t always understand the contracts they sign.
“I want to help them finish school, play professionally, and build stable futures.”
Sources: Rhodes University
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