What started as admiration soon became a calling. Ayanda Jiyane (21) is a netball player from KwaMthethwa outside Empangeni whose journey proves that true strength is built through perseverance. Her love for netball started in primary school, inspired by her mother Gugulethu Mthembu, a former netball player herself.

Being an athlete has never been easy for Jiyane. Her journey has been marked by multiple injuries that could have ended her dream. Instead of giving up, she chose to rise again. Every setback inspired her and every scar reminded her of why she started.

On court, Jiyane who is a fourth-year engineering student at the Durban University of Technology (DUT) is a powerful and versatile defender, perfectly playing goal defense, winger defense, and goalkeeper. Her game is inspired by her role model Karla Pretorius, whose defensive excellence empowers her own fighting spirit.

Jiyane’s hard work has earned her the opportunity to compete on some of the biggest stages in netball including Provincial Championships, University Sport South Africa (USSA), South African Local Government Association (SALGA), Premier’s Cup, Schools competitions, and the KZN Super League. Wearing KZN colours stands as one of her proudest achievements.

Ayanda has represented multiple teams across different leagues, gaining experience with every season. Currently, she proudly plays for DUT Hurricanes in both the KZN Super League and the Regional League.

Pictured: Ayanda Jiyane.

Vukani Langa