MBABANE – At just 12 years old, Sivikelwe Shongwe has dived headfirst into a life-changing opportunity.
The young athlete has secured a prestigious 100 per cent scholarship at Curro Hazeldean Pretoria in South Africa, a move set to transform both his academic and sporting trajectory. The six-year scholarship will see Sivikelwe join the elite Tuks Swimming programme, under the guidance of renowned Coach Rocco Meiring, the man who coached South African Olympic legend Tatjana Smith (née Schoenmaker).
For Sivikelwe, this is a reward for extraordinary dedication. Residing at Simunye, the youngster has endured a gruelling 160km round trip to Manzini three times a week just to access the Mavuso Sports Centre Pool. Despite the travel, he has balanced his studies at Thembelisha Preparatory with a relentless competitive schedule.
His curriculum vitae is already formidable. A regular on the national stage, he represented Eswatini at the 2025 Africa Aquatics Zone IV Championships and has posted impressive qualifying times for the South African Level III championships, including a 1:13.54 in the 100 metres freestyle. A natural leader, he captained his school team and was crowned Junior Victor Ludorum in 2024.
The talent runs in the family; his sister, Sihlelelwe, has also secured a partial scholarship to the same institution for her prowess in freestyle and butterfly.
His mother, Nomkhosi Shongwe, admitted the journey has been a test of endurance for the whole family. “Supporting them financially, emotionally and physically has not been easy,” she said. “We are grateful to the school for this opportunity; it allows the children to access training facilities with ease. God carried us through.” Swimlab coach Welcome Nhlabatsi, who helped sharpen Sivikelwe’s raw talent, believes the move proves Eswatini can compete at the highest level. “It encourages us to keep working hard,” he said. “It shows we can match the standards of South Africa’s best.” Sivikelwe begins Grade VII at Curro this month, marking the start of a journey that many hope will eventually lead to the Olympic podium.
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