Seventeen-year-old flanker Qhawe Mqwebedu’s hard work and passion for rugby have earned him a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to represent South Africa in Italy, and now he’s calling on the community to help make his dream trip a reality.
Pretoria, South Africa (28 October 2025) – Seventeen-year-old rugby star Qhawe Mqwebedu is proof that dedication can take you places. And for him, that place could be Italy. The young flanker has been selected by Blue Runnings Sport International, in partnership with Stallion Rugby Group, to represent his school and his country abroad from 5 – 13 December this year.
For Qhawe, the news came as both a surprise and a dream come true.
“I was actually shocked because the coach pulled me aside after one of my games and told me he wanted me to go to Italy, I didn’t expect it at all. Being chosen was a huge moment for me.”
Having started his rugby journey at the age of six, Qhawe’s passion for the sport has only grown stronger over the years. Today, he plays for the Uitsig High School first team and captains the 7s side at Amberfield College. He also played a key role for the Pretoria Private Schools team, famously known as the Rooikatte, which went unbeaten to win the VKB Country District Week in Reitz earlier this year.
Among his proudest moments, Qhawe highlights leading his team to a final as captain, even though an injury kept him off the field that day.
“Just being there as their captain and being able to say we got that far was one of my proudest moments.”
As he prepares for this once-in-a-lifetime trip, Qhawe hopes to use the experience to grow both as a player and as a person.
“I want to gain more knowledge in rugby, experience new cultures, and come back to South Africa with everything I’ve learned not just for myself, but to help my school team and others around me.”
Qhawe’s journey has not been without challenges, after losing his older sister a few years ago, he has used rugby as a source of strength and motivation to keep moving forward.
To make his dream trip a reality, Qhawe needs to raise R50,000 by the 15th of November. He’s calling on the community to rally behind him.
“Supporting me isn’t just about helping one player. It’s about showing other young South Africans from all backgrounds that anything is possible.”
Those who wish to help Qhawe on his journey can contribute through his BackaBuddy campaign.
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