A selection
of inspiring
success stories

Changing Lives

A selection of student success stories

Masixole Zondani

Masixole Zondani, known as Maso, graduated from Murray High School and was raised in Plettenberg. His talent was recognized at an early age, and today he rides for the Exxaro MTB Academy, receiving professional coaching and the opportunity to pursue his tertiary degree. Many of his goals, both in cycling and personal development, were achieved thanks to the Kwano Cycling Academy, which laid the foundation for his academic and riding career.

Masixole has completed his Diploma in Sport Conditioning, obtained his Sport Management certification, and is currently working towards completing his Bachelor’s degree in Sport and Leisure Management. Simultaneously, he competes in major races such as the Absa Cape Epic and Wine 2 Whale, among others.

His next objective is to be selected to represent South Africa in the MTB Marathon World Championship in 2024. He is training diligently to maintain consistent performance in his racing.

Masixole considers himself fortunate to have grown up in Plettenberg and to have the opportunity to pursue a cycling career. He applauds Kwano Cycling Academy for instilling in him the four essential characteristics of respect, honesty, accountability, and commitment. He looks forward to what he can achieve in the coming years.

Anelisa Aries

Anelisa Aries is a 26-year-old resident of Plettenberg Bay. Anelisa is a dedicated cyclist affiliated with Kwano Cycling Academy, a journey that began in 2014 while attending Murray High School in grade 11. Following the completion of grade 12, Anelisa had the choice to continue cycling or pursue further studies. Opting for a gap year, Anelisa sought employment while still dedicating time to cycling.

During this time, Mr. Colin Shave generously provided an opportunity to work at an Electrical Company, fulfilling Anelisa’s aspiration of becoming an electrician. Anelisa’s professional journey has been marked by steady progress and a growing expertise in various aspects of electrical work. Presently, Anelisa holds a position of responsibility, overseeing solar installations and backup inverters on the site.

Anelisa’s cycling journey took a significant turn in 2021. Participating in a 3-day stage race, the Dr Evil Classic, under the guidance of Coach Sipho, Anelisa not only secured a prestigious high-end bicycle but also achieved third place in the team’s general classification. This accomplishment motivated Anelisa to intensify training and participate in additional Marathon and XCO races. While acknowledging imperfections and learning from every race, Anelisa continues to improve.

As a member of the academy, Anelisa considers fellow cyclists as an extended family, offering mutual support and assistance during rides. Anelisa takes an active role in mentoring younger riders, sharing valuable insights on maintaining strength, conserving energy, and achieving balance on the bike during races. The learning never stops, as Anelisa recognizes that perfection is an ongoing journey.

Kwano Cycling Academy holds a special place in Anelisa’s heart, as it has been instrumental in helping Anelisa achieve the current level of success. Anelisa takes immense pride in pursuing a passion and excelling in it. The experiences and knowledge gained from the academy have been pivotal in Anelisa’s journey.

Siyabulela Sonandzi

Siyabulela Sonandzi, also known as Siya, was born and raised in Plettenberg Bay. He was selected as one of the inaugural students to join the cycling academy, Kwano Academy. Siya graduated from Murray High School in 2015 and pursued further studies at Cape Peninsula University of Technology (CPUT) in Retail Business Management, successfully completing a certificate in Information Literacy. Unfortunately, due to financial difficulties, he was unable to complete his third year in Retail Business Management.

Over time, the management of Kwano Academy provided Siya with an opportunity to work as an Assistant Coach. Despite facing challenges in continuing and completing his third year, many members of Kwano Academy offered assistance. However, the Retail Course underwent changes, making it difficult for Siya to proceed. Despite these obstacles, working as an Assistant Coach has become a means for Siya to strive towards his goal of paying his fees and continuing his studies further.

Lilitha Bongoza

Lilitha Bongoza, a resident of Kwanokuthula, Plettenberg Bay, is a determined individual on her path to success. Currently in the final year of her National Diploma in Information Technology: Software Development at Nelson Mandela University, Lilitha is gaining practical experience as a Junior Operations Assistant at SES Assistance Pty Ltd, a division of Unisure Group Limited, since June 2022.

Born on May 31, 1998, Lilitha is a South African professional fluent in IsiXhosa and English. With an academic background from Murray High School, she demonstrates strong potential in the IT field. Lilitha is driven by a passion for IT and continuous learning.