Archive for month: August, 2023

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Trailblazing Duo Shatters Gender Barriers in Rugby

Thuto Rantso (19) and Crystal Francis (18) are two trailblazing young women who are joining the UXi International Rugby Institutes as the first female rugby players. At the Griquas Rugby Institute (GRI) in Kimberley, they are presently honing their rugby abilities. Both Rantso and Francis have already made a name for themselves on the local rugby scene, and their attendance at the UXi Rugby Institutes is a big step forward for female athletes in a sport that has historically been dominated by men. Young girls are being motivated by their accomplishments to pursue their passion for rugby and overcome barriers.

Thuto Rantso, a native of Odendaalsrus, started playing rugby at age 13 after achieving success in netball. Rantso’s dedication remained unwavering in the face of difficulties despite being the only female player on the field. In 2019, she went on to start a girls’ rugby team with the goal of overcoming obstacles and playing professionally.

Crystal Francis, a Kimberley native who fell in love with rugby at the age of 17, has displayed incredible versatility as a winger, centre, flanker, and lock. She became passionate about rugby after a chance encounter with the South African women’s team, and she aspires to play for the Springbok rugby team.

The GRI, run by UXi Sport, offers academic and life skills training in addition to a high-performance rugby development program. Their male counterparts have practised and improved their skills alongside Rantso and Francis with unwavering support. Future generations of female athletes will be inspired by this chance to defy expectations and succeed in their respective fields. The GRI provides a setting for holistic development by fusing rugby instruction with academic certifications and life skills training.

Rantso and Francis are paving the way for women in rugby as the first female participants in the UXi Rugby Institutes. Their stories serve as inspiration for adversity, excellence, and empowerment.

Read the full article on News24 by Helena Barnard here.

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UXi Sport takes hands with EduTel

UXi Sport is proud to announce its new partnership with Edutel, a reputable and credible Higher Education private provider, registered with the Department of Higher Education and Training.

This will enable the UXi Rugby Institute player-students to embark on studies towards a career in Teaching whilst also focusing on their Rugby Skills Development.

Edutel was founded in the early ‘90’s by Andries Pelser who brought with him over thirty years of experience in the field of education and training. Edutel is a one-stop to life-long learning, specialising in skills development, higher education, teacher training, Continuous Professional Development (CPD), and Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL). It is also a BBBEE level 1 concern.

All its higher education programs are recognized by the Department of Education as well as formally registered on SAQA.

The UXi Rugby Institute students will be able to apply for registration for the following programs through Edutel;

  1. Diploma in GR Teaching- NQF level 6
  2. Bachelor of Education in Foundation phase Teaching- NQF level 7
  3. Bachelor of Education in Intermediate phase Teaching- NQF level 7

Once a student has successfully graduated with  his/her Bachelor’s qualification, they can continue to advance their teaching skills with Advanced Certificates in Teaching as well pursue a Diploma or Honours in School Leadership and Management.

UXi Sport, in line with its vision to “Inspire Greatness Through Sport to Life”, believes that this initiative will address the shortage of especially male teachers with rugby code specialist coaching skills in South Africa, and most importantly create employment for life after the sport.

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Inclusive Sports Management: Embracing Diversity

Inclusive Sports Management: Embracing Diversity

  • Driving Change: The Power of Diversity
  • Breaking Down Barriers: Overcoming Challenges
  • Inclusivity in Professional Sport
  • The Ripple Effect: Beyond the Present UXi Sport
  • The Role of Advocacy: Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sports
  • Final Thoughts: A United Call for Progress

The rallying cry to support diversity and inclusion is resonating louder than ever in the dynamic world of the sport industry. Diversity recognition involves more than simple deeds. It entails incorporating inclusivity into sports and fostering a climate in which anyone can succeed, regardless of background or identity.

Driving Change: The Power of Diversity

Sport diversity is about embracing the richness of different perspectives and experiences, not just checking boxes. People of various racial and ethnic backgrounds, genders, and sexual orientation must be found working together in the sport industry. This confluence of shared interests fosters innovation and gives sport new thoughts that help it advance.

A Tapestry of Perspectives

Diversity in sport is comparable to creating a colourful tapestry out of different viewpoints’ threads. It involves accepting people with various sexual orientations, racial, ethnic, and gender backgrounds. This diversity of backgrounds adds a vibrant fusion of insights, ideas, and new methods to the sport industry.

Fostering Innovation

In contrast to diversity, homogeneity breeds predictability. A diverse team offers a diverse range of solutions in sports management. When people with different life experiences work together, they bring new perspectives that push the envelope. This engaging exchange piques the imagination and inspires creative approaches that advance the sector.

Reflecting the Global Community

Sport is a global language that connects people from all continents and backgrounds. Sport organisations that value diversity reflect the inclusive culture of the sports sector as a whole. Sports fans from a variety of backgrounds devote their passions, time, and money to the sport, so it is crucial that the business reflects their reality. By doing this, it not only recognizes the diversity of the global community but also chimes with its universal principles.

Fueling Progress and Growth

Diversity is a driving force behind development and growth, not just a trendy word. Sport encourages diversity and gives underrepresented groups the tools they need to assume leadership positions in their surroundings. Sport acts as a catalyst for social and professional advancement by providing opportunities to people from a variety of backgrounds.

The Power of Transformation

Each component of a sport organisations’ mosaic adds to the overall picture. The sport benefits from a diverse team that embraces individuals with distinctive strengths and viewpoints. The power of diversity transforms not only sport organisations but the entire industry, giving it a competitive edge that is both inclusive and innovative.

Breaking Down Barriers: Overcoming Challenges

Even though improvements have been made, participation barriers still exist for underrepresented groups. These barriers must be removed in order to encourage diversity and inclusion. By identifying and removing obstacles to sports participation, we create opportunities for individuals from all backgrounds to succeed and assume participation and leadership roles in the sports industry.

Identifying Systemic Barriers

There are structural obstacles to diversity and inclusion in many facets of society, including sports. People from underrepresented groups are unable to access opportunities because of these obstacles, which include gender biases and racial disparities. Sport organisations need to be aware of these problems and commit to dismantling the structures that enable them.

Addressing Representation Gaps

One of the main issues is the lack of diversity in sporting organisations, especially in positions of leadership. The processes used in decision-making may unintentionally reinforce existing disparities when there is a lack of diversity in management positions. Making an effort to ensure that the leadership fairly represents the various communities that the sector serves is part of promoting diversity and inclusion.

Educating and Raising Awareness

Education and awareness-raising campaigns are crucial tools for removing barriers to inclusion and diversity. By encouraging a deeper comprehension of the issues and their effects, sport organisations can foster a supportive culture. This enlightenment motivates individuals to support diversity and promote change.

Inclusivity in Professional Sport

Diversity promotion extends beyond the field of play to include positions of leadership. By ensuring that people with diverse backgrounds are fairly represented in positions of decision-making in sport management, diversity is promoted.

Effective Representation

Beyond the athletes on the field, inclusivity permeates every aspect of the professional sports industry, including executive positions. Diversity in management positions not only reflects the larger community but also brings a variety of viewpoints to the table for decision-making. This diversity makes sure that strategies are thoughtful, nuanced, and sensitive to the needs of different societal groups.

Promoting Equality

In professional sports, inclusivity directly confronts historical inequities. It aims to address discrimination on the basis of race, gender, sexual preference, and other factors. Sport organisations must send a strong message that talent and potential, not predetermined characteristics, are the true metrics of success by tearing down barriers and advancing equality.

Supporting Change

The sport industry has a special opportunity to promote change, not just in their field but also in society at large. Athletes from different backgrounds serve as role models and advocates for inclusivity when they take the field. Their accomplishments and actions go beyond sports, motivating future generations to reject prejudice and value diversity.

A Ripple Effect of Positivity

Professional sports that are inclusive have an impact that goes beyond the playing field. When athletes from underrepresented groups succeed, their success serves as motivation for those facing comparable difficulties. This empowerment also applies to management positions, where people from different backgrounds shine as examples of what is possible for upcoming generations.

The Ripple Effect: Beyond the Present UXi Sport

The impact of diversity and inclusion in sports management reverberates far beyond the present moment. For example, when international rugby institutes like UXi Sport go above and beyond to create opportunities for underprivileged individuals, the effects ripple through generations, leaving a legacy of empowerment, possibility, and progress.

A Holistic Approach to Inclusivity
UXi Sport’s commitment to inclusivity is a testament to the transformative power of sports management. By providing pathways for underprivileged individuals to become professional rugby players while pursuing academic careers, they create a comprehensive ecosystem of support. This approach isn’t just about short-term success; it’s about empowering individuals to rewrite their life stories.

Unlocking Potential and Breaking Cycles
For underprivileged individuals, access to professional sports can seem like an unattainable dream. UXi Sport shatters this perception by offering a platform that not only nurtures their rugby talents but also supports their education. By breaking the cycle of limited opportunities, they empower individuals to create lasting change not only for themselves but for their families and communities as well.

Inclusive Programs for All
UXi Sport’s commitment to diversity and inclusion extends to women and young kids of all races. By offering programs that cater to a wide range of demographics, they ensure that inclusivity isn’t a mere slogan but a lived reality. These programs pave the way for young athletes to dream big and realise their potential, regardless of their background.

Empowering Women in Sport
In a traditionally male-dominated field, UXi Sport’s inclusion of women is a beacon of progress. By creating pathways for women in rugby and sports management, they challenge stereotypes and inspire young girls to see themselves as athletes and leaders. This empowerment extends beyond the playing field, influencing their confidence and aspirations in every aspect of life.

Shaping Future Generations
The ripple effect of UXi Sport’s inclusive initiatives extends to future generations. When underprivileged individuals succeed, they become role models and mentors for others facing similar challenges. These success stories inspire young kids to believe in themselves, work hard, and overcome obstacles. The legacy of inclusivity becomes a catalyst for continuous positive change.

The Heart of the Legacy
UXi Sport’s commitment to underprivileged individuals, women and young kids of all races is a testament to the heart of the legacy they’re building. By offering opportunities to individuals who might otherwise be overlooked, they create a ripple effect that touches lives, families, and communities. This legacy isn’t just about winning games; it’s about creating a world where potential knows no bounds and barriers are turned into stepping stones.

The Role of Advocacy: Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sports

The Institute for Diversity and Ethics in Sports plays a crucial part in this transformation. They encourage discussions, research, and actions that move the sector toward a more inclusive future by promoting diversity inclusion in sports. Their initiatives strengthen the call for change, ensuring that the sector keeps developing.

Amplifying Awareness

The value of inclusion and diversity in the sport industry is promoted by advocacy groups like TIDES. They highlight inequalities, difficulties, and opportunities in sport organisations through research, writing, and public engagement. By bringing these issues to light, they stimulate debate and spur action.

Catalyzing Conversations

Organisations like TIDES use advocacy to start discussions that cut across boundaries. They create forums where the significance of diversity and equity in sports management can be openly discussed by involving stakeholders, from athletes to executives. These discussions expose biases, debunk myths, and advance understanding among participants.

Promoting best practices

Best practices for advancing diversity and inclusion in the sports industry are promoted by TIDES and similar organisations. They create frameworks, guidelines, and recommendations that sport organisations can use to foster more welcoming environments. These rules go beyond the playing field and provide guidance on hiring procedures, leadership diversity, and community involvement.

Driving Accountability

Sport organisations are held accountable by advocacy groups for their dedication to diversity and inclusion. They make sure that business leaders continue to be committed to fostering inclusivity by keeping track of progress, evaluating procedures, and highlighting gaps. This responsibility motivates ongoing efforts to handle problems and bring about change.

Motivating Change

Organisations like TIDES encourage change through their advocacy, not only for the industry but also for society. Their efforts serve as a reminder that sport can spur social change and that diverse representation is advantageous to all parties. The movement towards inclusivity is accelerated by their ability to have an impact on both public opinion and decision-makers.

Final Thoughts: A United Call for Progress

The sports industry cannot afford to ignore the ongoing journey towards diversity and inclusion in sport. It involves hiring practices that are inclusive of people of all races and genders, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds, and guaranteeing that everyone, regardless of identity, has a seat at the table. Sports management must build a vibrant, dynamic future that truly embodies the spirit of sport: togetherness, camaraderie, and shared passion by championing diversity and inclusion in sport organisations and management.

Industry Leaders as Catalysts

Sport industry leaders are in charge of bringing about change. Policy, practice, and culture can be shaped by administrators, executives, and sponsors. They set the tone for the entire industry by promoting diversity and inclusion in their organisations. Their dedication makes it abundantly clear that inclusivity is a fundamental requirement, not an option.

Educational Institutions and Academia

The next generation of sports professionals is nurtured in large part by academic institutions. By incorporating diversity and inclusion practices into sports management curricula, they give aspiring leaders the skills and knowledge necessary to build inclusive workplaces. These educational initiatives have an industry-wide impact and help to create a more inclusive future.

Athlete Advocacy and Influence

Athletes have a special platform that goes beyond the playing field. They serve as role models, motivators, and promoters of constructive change. Promoting diversity and inclusion is a powerful message that athletes can deliver to both fans and industry stakeholders. They encourage others to join the movement by amplifying the call for advancement.

Collaborations and Partnerships

The impact of the call for progress is increased through partnerships between sport organisations, advocacy groups, and community organisations. When various organisations work together, they pool their resources, knowledge, and networks to promote change. These collaborations establish a network of assistance that quickens the process of inclusivity.

Conclusion

The collective cry for advancement cuts across the divisions of sporting organisations; it strikes a chord in the hearts of spectators and athletes alike. It serves as a potent reminder that inclusion and diversity are fundamental components of the sports spirit, not just ideals to aspire to. The industry takes a giant step toward leaving a legacy that celebrates equality, embraces diversity, and fosters a sense of belonging for all as it comes together to answer this call.

Read the journies of our UXi Sport Women

Thea MillerLaricia SmitAngelique DrakeIsabeau MalanCarol JacobsAmina Israel Ploker Promise TshabanguUné SmitTenícke SmitKobie SwartTayla van HeerdenZwonaka MbedziJana OlivierNina Bothma

Thea Miller | UXi Sport Chief Operating Officer

After completing a degree in Marketing management and education, Thea’s journey included management, entrepreneurship and leadership in various industries such as insurance, fashion, retail, motor, property, hospitality and education.

She found herself at the forefront in the rugby industry in 2018, introducing a rugby development and education platform to the rugby unions across South Africa. She bravely fights for improved opportunities for youth and women in rugby and sport- promoting rugby and sport education, the importance of building careers for life after physical sport participation.

She describes sport as the toughest and most challenging industry she has ever worked in and had to overcome many disappointments and obstacles. However, her dream to create job opportunities and improve the unemployment of so many individuals in the industry are not only her passion, but a vision she lives by.

Thea believes that to change the world and overcome its many challenges, you need to be the CHANGE you want to see in this world, and that you can not expect a different outcome by continuing to do things in the same manner.


Thea Miller

Laricia Smit | PR/Communication and Events Director

Laricia Smit has 25 years’ experience in the public relations and communication management industry. She has project managed several marketing communication campaigns and is a registered Chartered Public Relations Practitioner. During her career, she has been responsible for the implementation of various communication strategies in the transport, education, mining and manufacturing industries and has recently ventured into sharing her knowledge and expertise in the sport marketing and events industry.

She has conceptualised, planned and implemented various national and international events ranging from conferences, seminars, workshops and training programmes. Her passion is academic development and education and she has been a part-time lecturer for the past 23 years at various private education providers in the country.

Laricia is the author of three academic handbooks: Event Management: Putting theory into practice – A South African Approach (5th Edition) (Masterskill Publishers); Marketing Communication (Pearson Education) and Business Management Principles (Pearson Education) and is a regular presenter at workshops and seminars on event management, business and entrepreneurship, ethics and communication. Her recent works include online course development during the COVID-19 pandemic (2020-2022) on Event Management, Office Administration, Travel and Events, CRM for Project Developers, Social Media and Sales & Marketing. She is a registered trainer for courses presented in Mauritius and registered by the Mauritian Qualifications Authority (MQA) as well as the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA).


Angelique Drake | Education Co-ordinator and Manager: UXi RI

After completing a diploma in public relations full time at NMMU, Angelique started working at SAA as a flight attendant her journey thus far includes hospitality, teaching in Thailand and sport industry specifically rugby. Angelique did several courses through the years to broaden her knowledge in the sport she loves, but also to understand young people and what makes them tick.

In 2014 Angelique joined the Dubai 7s Invitational tournament, currently the biggest Invitational tournament in the world as an assistant photographer but ended her 7s journey as the Tournament Administrator and Coordinator for a team of over a 150 people.

Angelique dream has always been to bring young talented strangers from across the world together and see them leave as friends and family for the rest of their lives. Her passion for young sports people is the driving force of her career and to see the young girls and boys grow up to be top tier referees on Television and International circuits and tournaments makes her humbly proud.

Angelique believes in the motto: “it’s not what you taught but what they caught” and maintains that rugby can bring people together and CHANGE the world. The sky has no limit – and neither do we!

Angelique loves her career choice and finds it the most exhilarating, exciting and rewarding career ever. The secret to success with young people is integrity, stability, fairness and loyalty. Angelique shares that “there are still so many lives I would like to touch in some way”.

Angelique’s favourite quote | “Play with respect, win with grace” – Roger Federer


Isabeau Malan | UXi Sport National Schools Sales & Marketing Manager

Over the past 6 years, Isabeau has built her career in the education sector, gaining experience in marketing, sales, and project administration.

With a genuine passion for nurturing long-lasting relationships and a drive to create innovative processes and opportunities, Isa has consistently shown dedication to her work. Her educational background includes a Diploma in Event Management from the Tshwane University of Technology, as well as a post-graduate certificate in Project Management from Edmonds College in Washington State, USA. These qualifications have equipped her with valuable skills and knowledge to excel in her current role.

Isabeau’s commitment to excellence and her continuous pursuit of personal and professional growth make her an invaluable asset to UXi Sport. She thrives in her position, utilizing her expertise to foster growth and success in the schools’ sales and marketing department. Her vision and determination inspire those around her, and she plays a crucial role in promoting the brand and mission of UXi Sport.

Carol Jacobs | National Finance Manager

Carol is a dynamic professional with a diverse career journey. Born in 1979, she is currently 42 years old and has achieved significant accomplishments in various fields. She embarked on her educational journey by obtaining her matriculation in 1997, setting the foundation for her future endeavors.

Through many trials and tribulations, Carol was able in 2015 to pursue her passion for finance and completed her National Diploma in Financial Accounting through part-time and self-paced studies. Armed with a solid understanding of financial principles, she set out to make her mark in the business world. Her first decade of work experience was in the retail sector, where she honed her customer relationship skills as well as financial expertise and gained valuable insights into the corporate landscape.

Not content to rest on her laurels, Carol transitioned to the academic sector, where she spent the next 10 years contributing to the development of young minds. Her time in academia provided her with a different perspective, nurturing her abilities in leadership, communication, and mentorship.

Driven by her love for sports and recognizing the need for women to enter the sports industry, Carol used her financial expertise to gain entry and pursue a new challenge. She now holds the esteemed position of National Financial Manager at UXi Sport, a position she is deeply passionate about. As a woman of color in finance and sports, she feels that the sports sector has helped her break some barriers, furthering the growth and success of the sport on a national level.

Carol hopes her journey serves as an inspiration to those who strive to achieve their goals through hard work, dedication, and a willingness to embrace change. She lives by the quote of Nelson Mandela: “It always seems impossible until it’s done.”

Amina Israel Ploker | HFPA Academic Head and Operations Manager

After completing an Honours Degree in Sport Management, ETDP-accredited courses, and specializing in Higher Education, Amina found herself on an incredible journey where her passion for sports, human movement studies, and education crossed paths. Her experience in the field has led her to excel in curriculum development, the management of academics on a national scale, and contribute to developing new and exciting course in sport, fitness, and nutrition that is vastly overlooked.

Her teaching philosophy is that students learn by doing; they learn in a safe and stimulating environment. As a facilitator, Amina aims to create a learning environment where students can grow emotionally, mentally, physically, and socially. She aims to create an environment where students can reach their full potential. She aims to develop critical, unique thinkers that can apply everyday knowledge to their syllabus and be adaptable to different environments.

Amina believes that this environment allows students to share ideas, take risks and guide topics. Careers in sports are very underrated; and her goal is to grow this industry and contribute to ensuring job opportunities are created in a country with such a high unemployment rate. Amina believes that as the new generation of leaders, we must all play a role in rebuilding this country for future generations to excel.


Promise Tshabangu | HFPA Finance Manager

After completing her qualifications in Corporate Governance, Administration and End-user Computing, Promise joined HFPA in 2008 and was introduced to the Fitness & Sport Industry. Promise is a dedicated and experienced financial professional with over 12 years’ worth of experience. Promise is a challenge-driven woman who possesses strong leadership and customer relations skills.

Since joining the Fitness and Sport industry, Promise quickly learnt more about the sport and fitness world; of which now she is extremely passionate about. Promise shares that it is always such a pleasure when talking to the HFPA Students, as she can hear the excitement and passion they have for the Fitness and Sport industry and for changing people’s lives.

Promise says that is has been extremely rewarding to watch the transformation of the HFPA students to Fitness Professionals; all of which end up doing exceptionally well in the industry.

Promise’s favourite quote is: “Be the change you wish to see in the world”. She believes that change starts with each person, and it is important to remember this in each step of your life.


Uné Smit | Academic Development Manager and Quantitative Analyst

Uné Smit is a highly accomplished professional serving as the Academic Development Manager and Quantitative Analyst. Her academic background includes a BCom Degree in Economics & Econometrics and a BCom Hons in Econometrics, focusing on the measurement of economic behavior and the impact of economic policies using economic theory, data, and statistical techniques. In addition, she holds a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) and is SACE registered. Uné has been recognized as a provincial and district teacher moderator appointed by the DBE.

During her tenure, Uné achieved remarkable success with her 2022 NSC Final Exams Matric Learners, securing an impressive 19th position in South Africa for candidates with the most distinctions. Furthermore, her learners excelled even further by placing 4th in Gauteng for Quintile 5 schools. These achievements demonstrate Uné’s exceptional teaching and leadership skills, as well as her commitment to academic excellence.

Currently, Uné is embarking on a new venture in higher education, where she will play a crucial role in the academic development of various new course offerings. Her specialized skills in applying mathematical and statistical methods will be instrumental in identifying at-risk students and implementing strategies to enhance education management techniques.

With her expertise and dedication to fostering academic growth, Uné is poised to make a significant impact in higher education, ensuring that students receive the support they need to excel in their studies. Her passion for education and her proficiency in quantitative analysis make her an invaluable asset to her team and the institution she serves.

Tenícke Smit | Social Media Manager

Tenícke Smit is a three-times silver medallist at the World Championships of Performing Arts 2017 in Hollywood Los Angeles for Acrobatics, Jazz and Freestyle with an overall placing of 2nd out of 67 countries. As a dance-athlete she has performed in Africa, Europe and the United States of America. She is the owner of “Unicke Dance, Models, Performing Arts & Events” responsible for the choreographing, training and conditioning of dance-athletes competing on an international level.

She started her career as an acrobatic gymnast and later ventured into many other genres such as Jazz, Freestyle, Contemporary, Lyrical and Showdance. She has Gauteng and South African Colours in both acrobatic gymnastics and dance. She holds the title of SA Dance School Champion in her age group from 2015-2019 in various different styles and received many gold medals and division winning titles at competitions such as South African Championship of Performing Arts, SA Dance School Championships, Dance World Cup, Dance Stars and multiple Eisteddfods. Tenícke started teaching at the age of 17.

Tenícke also has a BCom Economics & Business Science Degree that she passed with distinction, as well as a Diploma in Ministry (Christian Entrepreneurship). Tenícke is passionate about dancing, modelling and performing arts and believes if you perform with your heart and soul your body will follow. Tenícke is also a lifestyle, commercial, skills and fitness model. She currently holds the titles of Miss International RSA 2022 and is the National Face of Talent Africa for 2023.


Kobie Swart | Senior Graphics Designer

Kobie completed her Diploma in Visual Communication in 2009. She Kickstarted her career in graphic design in 2010 at a Church in Pretoria East. She has since worked at a design agencies, a printing house and as in-house designer at a tertiary education provider.

She started her journey as Senior Graphic Designer in the Sports and Fitness Education industry in January 2023. She finds it remarkable that there are so many diverse job opportunities available in this industry and is proud to be part of these two companies that pride themselves on not only providing quality sports, health and fitness education to young aspiring sports and fitness fanatics, but also assist in launching their careers in the wide spectrum that these industries have to offer.

Kobie believes that teamwork makes the dream work, and that it is important to be a supportive and contributing team player in all spheres of life.

Tayla van Heerden | Special Projects and Operations Assistance

Tayla is an ambitious, highly motivated and determined young lady who has a passion for all things sport, fitness and education! During her honours degree in Sport Science, Tayla discovered her love for rugby; so much so that she did her honours thesis in rugby analysis. This led her to pursue a video and game internship at the Western Province Rugby Academy in 2020; this was unfortunately cut short due to Covid-19.

As a result, Tayla had to adapt her skillset and reinvented herself in digital marketing, social media and business management. Under the leadership and guidance of UXi Sport C.O.O., Thea Miller, Tayla was provided the opportunity to secure a position in the sporting marketing environment. This was achieved all whilst balancing further postgraduate studies in education. Through this opportunity, Tayla has seen the power and impact that sport has in the world. When combined with education and purpose, sport really does have the power to change the world.

Whilst Tayla says it can at times be intimidating, as a 24-year-old woman in a male-dominated industry, she loves being challenged and learning as much as she can from as many people as possible.

Tayla lives by the following quote: “When you live for a strong purpose, then hard work isn’t an option. It’s a necessity.” – Steve Pavlina. Tayla is passionate about making a positive impact in world, no matter how big or how small, and believes that with hard work and determination, you really can go beyond limits previously known.


Zwonaka Mbedzi | WPRA Video and Game Analyst Intern

Zoe completed her undergraduate degree in sports coaching and human movement science at the North-West University. She then proceeded to complete an honours degree in sports science (High Performance Sport) at the University of Stellenbosch.

Zoe is an extremely talented and multi-skilled young lady. She has a unique skillset for all things sports-related, from a practical and technical side. She has experience in coaching, strength and conditioning and performance analysis. However, video and game analysis quickly became one of Zoe’s passions, especially within the world of rugby.

Her love for rugby lead her to pursue various opportunities within the technical and performance analysis department. Whilst tough as a young female in a male-dominated spot, Zoe dove headfirst into every opportunity that came her way. Zoe quickly found an opportunity as a rugby technical assistant for Stellenbosch University and assisted a local rugby club with their match coding. Her dedication and commitment to her craft provided her an opportunity at the Western Province Rugby Academy as their Video and Game Analysis intern – only the second woman in the Academy’s history to do so.

Zoe is passionate about sport and the culture it creates; she loves being in a space where growth and learning opportunities are available, and where there is diversity in what she does. Zoe’s goal within her career is to help make a positive impact on the sports culture and help make way for and inspire other young females in sport.

A motto that Zoe lives by, and what got her to where she is today:

Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for people. – Colossians 3:23


Jana Olivier | Graphics Designer and Triathlon Event Founder

After completing her graphic design degree and a certificate in business management, Jana decided to combine her love for sports, design, and people. Since she can remember, sports have been part of her life, whether it was gymnastics, hockey, running, swimming, or cycling.

Jana founded Upington Summer Triathlon in her hometown and hosts this event annually in her free time. This is her most significant accomplishment in sport. It is through this were she can see herself and her passion grow. Jana sees it as a platform where she can make other people fall in love with the sport and, in the process, help build the sports community of South Africa.

Although it is not always the easiest task, as a 22-year-old woman, there are a lot of challenges to overcome, but the rewards make it all worth it. With participants as young as five, her heart burst with pride to see how future sportsmen and women develop and the joy and excitement that goes with it.

“This is what brings it all together – the unity sport gives our nation, no matter your shape, size, or age.” Jana believes nothing is impossible, especially where passion, love, and dedication are present.


Nina Bothma | UXi Sport Content Creator

Nina is a final year BA Sport Science student at Stellenbosch University. Nina found a love for male-dominant sports, such as rugby and bodybuilding, at a young age. When she was in high school, she began capturing the feeling of these sports through photography and videography, specifically being her high school’s rugby photographer. Nina says that this gave her the platform to show people the “behind the scenes” view, and the diversity of what it means to be a rugby player. This has become one of the highlights of her career.

Nina’s previous experience in sales helped her improve her communication skills, empathy and ability to understand and see what people want. Nina loves how unexpected, exciting and ever-changing the content creation environment is. She loves being able to give her creativity free reign, and finding new ways to capture the energy, discipline and passion that rugby players portray.

Nina’s main goal is to capture the passion of the sport in her work. She wants to empower and show others that you do not have to be afraid to fight for what you dreams and pursue what you truly want to do in life. Even if you stand out, even if you are the only one doing it. You never know who you are inspiring.

Nina lives by the following motto: “5 seconds of courage is all it takes.” She feels that often people are to scared to pursue their goals or try something new for fear of failure or rejection. However, Nina believe that if you allow yourself to have 5 seconds of blind courage and just go for it, you never know where it might take you. Take the chances; not every every door will open for you, but the right ones always will. But you will never know if you don’t try.


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VIDEO AND GAME ANALYSIS PROGRAMME


Sometimes the most thrilling thing about rugby isn’t the result itself – but the data and statistics behind the game! If game statistics, data and analytics and technology in general interests you, then you may be the next best video and game analyst or performance coach! Video and game analysis, which is a branch of High Performance Sport Science, is taking the sporting world by storm. Now more than ever, athletes and coaches and desperate for data-driven feedback to their rugby skills. This first-of-its-kind programme helps aspirant sporting analysts gain an understanding of how to use Video and Game analysis to contribute to coaching of players. Student-analysts will learn the techniques and skillsets needed to successfully record, code, analyse, interpret and provide key feedback on rugby games and practices, from start to finish. Student-analysts learn how to professionally code and extract information, with exposure to a variety of software packages and developmental applications. If you already love spending hours on your laptop, then why not make a professional sporting career out of it?



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