Basketball And Giving Back: Meet Vuyolwethu

“I was raised by three strong black women: my late grandmother, my aunt, and my incredible mother,” says Vuyo, speaking about his childhood growing up in the Nyanga township in Cape Town. “They grounded me and molded me to be respectful, generous and kind, and instilled in me a vision to always see beyond my circumstances.”

Vuyo first found out about the scholarship opportunity when SBF visited his school. “I was immediately inspired and motivated and got a feeling of genuine love from the SBF representatives.” After a successful application process, he was placed at Rondebosch Boys’ High School, matriculating in 2017. “SBF was closely involved in my journey and supported me in all aspects of my development, which really had a positive impact on my school experience.”

Vuyo went on to study a B.Com degree – an experience he describes as tough but very constructive in terms of personal growth. “During challenging periods SBF were always there to help, like providing tutors for English and Physics when I really needed the support to be able to thrive.”

Currently in his second year at the University of the Western Cape, where he also loves playing basketball as an extra mural activity, he still finds the time to coach at Rondebosch Boys’. “I am looking to broaden my expertise in sports management while I pursue my studies, in addition to mentoring fellow SBF scholars. And I am passionate about eventually using my place in the sports and corporate sector to develop young people from disadvantaged communities to help them reach their full potential and the vision they have for their future.”

“Without the SBF opportunity I highly doubt that I would be as equipped as I am today. It has allowed me to unlock my true potential and get me into growth-mindset, as well as giving me the opportunity to connect with highly driven people. It has truly changed my life.”