Growing up in Ladysmith, KwaZulu-Natal, Samkelo Wiseman Junior Maisela learned early that strength is often quiet. His father passed away when he was six, and with his mother frequently away for work, much of his upbringing came from his guardian, who ran a local daycare centre. From her, Samkelo absorbed lessons of humility, service, and kindness, learning that true leadership often means showing up for others without expectation.
As a boy, he watched peers finish high school only to fall into what he calls a “rabbit hole of lost ambition.” Determined to rewrite that story for himself and others, Samkelo sought opportunities to rise above his circumstances. Sport became his anchor: rugby gave him confidence, discipline, and a sense of purpose, proving that dedication could open doors beyond the field.
The path to university was not without obstacles. Financial constraints and self-doubt often loomed large, and seeing friends abandon their studies was disheartening. Encouragement from close friends, especially teammate and classmate Nathi Mvelase, kept him moving forward. “Stagnation was not an option,” Nathi reminded him – a simple phrase that became a guiding principle.
A major setback came when Samkelo lost his NSFAS funding after completing his first degree. Yet, in 2024, his years of dedication and leadership were recognised 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 reflects.
For Samkelo, rugby is more than a game. “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. “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.”
Samkelo’s leadership often happens behind the scenes. During Orientation Week, he accompanied a student to advocate for residence placement. “We didn’t succeed, but his mother’s gratitude reminded me that showing up for someone is what matters most.” This quiet dedication mirrors the values of Ally Weakley; service, humility, and a commitment to others.
Looking ahead, Samkelo hopes to use his law degree to protect young athletes from exploitation. “Many talented kids don’t understand the contracts they sign. I want to help them finish school, play professionally, and build stable futures.”
He remains profoundly grateful to those who make bursaries like his possible. “Thank you for turning a young man’s dreams into reality. Your support tells me that people see my effort and believe in me. Because of your generosity, I can continue studying and one day help change other lives too.”
Samkelo’s journey is a testament to the enduring spirit of perseverance, humility, and service. His story reminds us that leadership need not be loud to be powerful, and that acts of quiet dedication can create ripples of impact far beyond the field.
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