Simphiwe Ditshaba, a 12-year-old with prosthetic legs and one arm, is inspiring with his resilience and positivity, excelling in sports and life despite immense challenges.
Free State, South Africa (31 May 2024) – At just 12 years old, Simphiwe Ditshaba has faced more challenges than most of us could ever imagine. Yet, this remarkable young man has turned every obstacle into an opportunity, inspiring everyone around him with his unwavering positivity and extraordinary achievements.
Simphiwe’s journey began with a harrowing ordeal. As a little boy, he was diagnosed with Meningococcemia, a severe blood infection. The complications led to septicaemia, and tragically, he lost both his legs, his right arm, and several fingers on his left hand. Despite these devastating setbacks, Simphiwe’s spirit remained unbroken.
In 2018, he started school at Sandveld Combined School in Wesselsbron, Free State. Transitioning to school life was no small feat for Simphiwe. Originally right-handed and only able to speak Sotho, he had to learn to write with his left hand and adapt to Afrikaans, the predominant language at his school. With the support of dedicated teachers, he overcame these challenges and in 2019, was fitted with state-supplied prosthetics. Learning to use these new limbs was another hurdle, but Simphiwe faced it with determination and resilience.

His love for sports soon became evident. Despite his physical limitations, Simphiwe refused to be sidelined. His commitment and enthusiasm for sports have left his teachers and peers in awe. He not only participates but excels, embodying the very essence of perseverance and passion.
In 2023, Good Things Guy featured Simphiwe’s story when South Africans rallied together to crowdfund over R100,000 for new prosthetics for him. His story did not end there. The South African Hall of Fame Legacy Project recently produced a video showcasing his incredible journey and the indomitable spirit that drives him.
“The South African Hall of Fame Legacy Project is here to inspire our youth, create opportunities, and bring hope to a generation of talented children living in despair,” says the Hall of Fame, which was established in 2017.
The project aims to identify and support talented individuals who lack resources, offering them opportunities in education, sport, and the arts.

Empowering children through education and sport can have a profound impact on their development and future prospects. This empowerment requires a collaborative effort from educators, administrators, parents, and the community. Simphiwe’s story is a shining example of what can be achieved when we come together to support and uplift our youth.
Simphiwe’s journey is best encapsulated by a quote from Marianne Williamson’s A Return to Love: “Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, ‘Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous?’ Actually, who are you not to be? You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.”
Simphiwe Ditshaba’s story is a reminder that with resilience, support, and a positive attitude, anything is possible. Watch his inspiring story below and let his light encourage you to overcome your own challenges.