South Africa’s young squash prodigy, Awande Malinga, has dominated the squash courts throughout her High School career, winning titles including ‘Two-time SA U19 Squash National Champion’, honours that will forever be etched in the history of Squash in SA.
And the news that has Malinga so excited – The talented competitor is heading to the USA after securing a scholarship to study at Drexel University situated in Philadelphia!
“It means everything. It’s a chance to further my education, enhance my squash skills, and represent my country on an international stage. It’s a dream come true.”
2023 SA U19 Squash Champion, Awande Malinga, on her way to the USA
With High School now done and dusted, she’s been busy preparing for her next major step. “Life after high school has been amazing and very busy. I’ve been training hard, preparing for my move to Drexel University, and spending time with family and friends.”
Malinga, evidently, was a diligent scholar both on- and off the courts, and that excellence has secured her a move abroad.
“I will be studying Sports Business. I chose this field because it combines my interests in Business and Sport, and it offers a solid foundation for my future career, as it is a new field with so much potential and opportunity in the USA.
“The scholarship came through a lot of hard work, support from my coaches and family, and my performance in both academics and squash. Drexel recognised my potential, and I’m grateful for the opportunity.”
With this ground-breaking move, Malinga will get an opportunity to take her skills to ‘international squash star’ level, through better facilities and coaches.
“It means everything. It’s a chance to further my education, enhance my squash skills, and represent my country on an international stage. It’s a dream come true.”
The big step is all but sealed, the ticket to the US has been booked for September 2024. She will be boarding that life-changing flight to go and unlock more opportunities and see how she can unseal a whole new world in squash.
It’s worth highlighting that for a young, black South African, who’s excelled in a sport that is regarded as elite, and become one of the most popular faces in the sport, this is a noteworthy feat.
It does not end there, though, as the scholarship is not a full scholarship, which means the young ambassador of SA sport still needs further support to continue to realise her dreams abroad. Malinga elaborates on the impact support from corporate and potential funders will have in her endeavours.
“I’d say your support can make a huge difference. It allows talented athletes like myself to focus on training and education without financial worries. Your investment helps us achieve our full potential and inspire others.”
Young and phenomenal athletes, who are black and female, seem to sometimes be at the bottom of the ‘to sponsor’ list.
The odds are truly stacked against them, even though they shatter glass ceilings, producting world-standard performances under dire circumstances. If the 2020 Momentum gsport Public Choice Award winner had one wish for women in sport, this would be it:
“I wish for more recognition and equitable opportunities for talented young women, especially from underrepresented backgrounds. Despite demonstrating exceptional skill and dedication, many of us still face barriers to securing sponsorships. I hope to see a shift where sponsors actively seek out and support diverse talent, recognising the immense potential and unique perspectives we bring.”
“Investment in young black female athletes can not only propel our careers but also inspire countless others who see themselves reflected in our success. It’s about creating a more inclusive and supportive environment in sports, where talent and hard work are the main criteria for support, regardless of background. This change would pave the way for many more to follow their dreams without financial constraints holding them back.”
The young athlete adds that the media also has a responsibility in advancing women’s sport: “The media can help by providing more coverage of women’s sports, sharing stories of female athletes, and highlighting their achievements. This visibility encourages support and inspires the next generation.”
As SA celebrates Youth Month, Malinga went to Jabulile Secondary School to inspire young people like herself to aim for greater heights in whichever field they choose.
Watch Awande Malinga’s video about meeting scholar athletes at Jabulile Secondary School in Orange Farm
“My key messages were about believing in yourself, working hard, and never giving up on your dreams. I wanted them to know that no matter where you come from, you can achieve great things with dedication and perseverance,” says Malinga.
“It was a powerful and humbling experience. I feel grateful to share my journey and hope it inspires others to pursue their passions with confidence.”
As soon as Malinga lands in the US, her mission is clear and simple: “My plan is to train hard, compete at the highest level, and continue improving my game. I aim to represent my university well and hopefully play professionally in the future.”
As we beam with pride to see one of our own embark on this transformative journey, we’ll certainly miss her smile and grace but also her young sense of confidence and competitiveness on the squash court. She, on the other hand, will miss many things about her birth country. One of them being her mom and dad who have always been her greatest anchors and support structure from day one.
“I’ll miss my family, friends, and the vibrant culture of South Africa. The support system here has been incredible, and I’ll definitely miss the familiar faces, places and the accent.”
We say ‘ndlelanhle’ (safe journey) Awande, and may you grow to greater heights in your odyssey abroad.
Photo Caption: Former SA U19 squash champion Awande Malinga will continue to pursue personal sponsorships after having secured a partial scholarship to study at the Drexel University in the USA. The young athletic star argues strongly in support of SA girls and women in sport. All Photos: Supplied
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