By Morgan Harlin | Chief Operating Officer
At just 16 years old, Lelethu Nono, South Africa’s U16 national captain, began his journey in one of the most overlooked communities in the country.
Lelethu grew up in Zwide Township and was introduced to structured sport through United Through Sport at Emsengeni Primary School, a school with limited facilities and almost no access to organised sporting pathways. It was here, on local fields and within a consistent, supportive environment, that his potential first emerged. Like so many children in Zwide, Lelethu’s future depended not only on his talent, but on whether opportunity would reach him.
Through daily coaching, mentorship, and academic support, Lelethu developed not just as an athlete, but as a young person with discipline, confidence, and belief in what was possible. Recognising his promise, we supported him in securing a bursary to Grey High School, one of South Africa’s most prestigious schools. The transition required immense resilience. He entered a new academic, cultural, and linguistic environment, far removed from the community he had always known. He met these challenges with humility and determination, attending academic support sessions, maintaining strong performance in the classroom, and continuing to train with relentless focus.
His progress was immediate. In his first year, Lelethu was named Best Forward of the Season, an extraordinary achievement that reflected both his talent and work ethic. In 2025, he was selected to represent Eastern Province at the elite U16 Khomo Grant Week, competing alongside the top young players in the country.
Today, Lelethu stands as the captain of South Africa’s U16 national team. His leadership on the national stage is not the result of a single moment, but of years of consistent support, local investment, and a pathway that began in his own community.
Lelethu’s story is a powerful reminder that talent exists everywhere. What changes lives is access, belief, and the presence of opportunities that would not otherwise exist. His journey from Zwide Township to national captain reflects what becomes possible when young people are supported early, consistently, and close to home.
He is not only leading his country, he is showing what can happen when a child from is given the chance to rise.
By Morgan Harlin | Chief Operating Officer
By Morgan Harlin | Senior Programmes Manager
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