Gugulethu Mngomezulu (23) from Empangeni has made her mark in Karate.
Mngomezulu joined Karate when she was only seven years old. Her father was a boxer so she was highly motivated by him to take part in sporting events. Being trained by her own father was really a cherry on the top.
“My father was my role model and I have always wanted to continue his legacy and in that way I got introduced to Karate as I wanted to use both my hands and legs,” explained Mngomezulu.
When she joined the DUT Karate Club they sponsored her with everything that she needed including transportation, a sports kit and also accommodation was fully covered by the DUT Sport department which came as a surprise to her because ever since she started to take part in Karate she used to pay for everything but joining the DUT Karate Club was a game changer for her.
Through her hard work and determination of winning and representing the university in all local and provincial tournaments including national competitions. She is making sure that she is always ready for tournaments and receiving trophies and rewards which has made her to stand out from the rest as her diligence was noticed since her first year till present. Being so dedicated also contributed to her being appointed as the Karate coach.
The challenges that she always encountered as a woman in Karate is that it is known to be perceived as a male-dominated sport. Since she is a woman in a sport that is believed to be harsh sometimes as she does not receive enough recognition, is always working ten times harder than males in order for her hard work to be recognised. She indicated that being underestimated is such a big deal as a woman in sport but she is a hard worker, determined and knows how to deal with the pressure that is against her.
“For me nothing is hard to overcome as I was raised by very supportive parents that’s why I am so confident in what I am doing. I don’t care what the world thinks as long as I reach my goals. During my tournaments my parents would come and support me, so facing any type of stigma is not an issue as I just don’t entertain it at all, I just focus on myself and move forward in a humble manner,” she said.
Balance comes with self-control and discipline, so she makes sure that she always prioritises everything that happens in her life and always having a positive mentality even when bad things happen. She is always confident and believes in herself that everything will be done the way it has to be done. It was a very proud moment for her as she saw that her hard work and determination is being recognised, especially as a woman.
Mngomezulu expressed how she felt when she was appointed as a coach.
“I felt amazing and thrilled that I can finally share my skills and everything that I have obtained all these years with other people as well and guide people step by step and create champions as well. It’s been an amazing journey. Seeing my students winning also feels so wonderful and a blessing from God. In 2021 I was also awarded as the best female fighter trophy,” said Mngomezulu.
She encourages beginners who want or just joined Karate, to believe in their own capabilities and be confident in their craft.
“Never start something that you can’t finish and always know that everything takes time. Karate is a process, there is a wonderful and amazing journey that lies before you but you need to be patient, keep pushing and strive for the best,” she said.
Students are welcome to join karate inside the DUT Sport Centre starting from 17:00 till 19:30. The fees for Karate are R100 for DUT students and R300 for outside members.
Pictured: Gugulethu Mngomezulu
Nomvelo Zulu
