Durban — KwaZulu-Natal 2022 Sportswoman of the Year and Commonwealth bronze medallist Phiwokuhle Mnguni said no words could explain her gratitude for her achievements.
Mnguni was named the Sports Personality of the Year and Sportswoman of the Year at the KZN Sports Awards held at the Durban International Convention Centre on Saturday.
The awards aim to recognise, celebrate and reward excellence from the province’s sporting men and women, amplifying their contribution to carrying the sports sector to stratospheric levels.
Sporting personalities across various sport codes were honoured in 19 categories and with three special MEC Awards. These included the successes and commitment of athletes, teams, coaches, administrators, volunteers, technical officials, media personnel as well as sports and recreation bodies.
Mnguni walked away with a brand new car and R100 000 in cash.
She said it was God and her ancestors who paved her way and future.
In August, Mnguni, a descendant of Struggle stalwart Dorothy Nyembe, became the first South African female boxer to stand on the podium at the Commonwealth Games held in Birmingham, England.
“I am still in shock. I do not know where to begin explaining myself. I cannot believe that I have achieved so much in such a short time. Just yesterday, I was at the Commonwealth Games podium and now here I am with yet another title added to my name. It can only be God and my ancestors,” said Mnguni.
She was grateful to her family and coaches including the public for bringing her closer to her dreams.
“I would say boxing is a calling for me. It is a difficult and male-dominated sport yet I never stopped loving it. I have been beaten numerous times including in training but I never gave up. But without all the support from my coaches Nathi Hlatshwayo, Nathi Thusi, Dube and Sibongile Boxing Family owner Mama Pretty, I never expected this.
“There are many good sports people and athletes. KZN also remembered me and appreciated my talent by voting for me, for this award. I am grateful,” Mnguni said.
Encouraging people to follow their dreams, Mnguni said: “I am a living proof to my peers and elders that everything is possible. I want young people in rural areas to be encouraged and not let their areas define them. Only hard work, dedication and patience can ever identify who you really are.”
Mnguni’s father, Mxolisi Mnguni said they had always reprimanded Mnguni for playing rough with boys while she was growing up. He said Mnguni was nicknamed “Ben 10” because she was always with the boys.
“I was very nervous when she started boxing at 12 years. We thought it was just a hobby that she would outgrow but no, she did not. And today, as her parents we could not be more proud. She proved to us and showed her dedication and love of boxing until we were at ease.”
MEC for sport, arts and culture Amanda Bani-Mapena heaped praise on Mnguni saying she was an inspiration to many women and young people.
“She has shown that it is all possible. That is why I said in my address that these are the sports stars that have contributed immensely to KwaZulu-Natal sporting culture from which young and aspiring sports people draw inspiration,” said Bani-Mapena.
Daily News