by Reatlegile Ratlagane
Top-performing athletes from the Tshwane University of Technology’s (TUT) Ga-Rankuwa Campus were honoured at the 2025 Sport Recognition Awards, a glittering event celebrating excellence, dedication and teamwork in university sport.
The ceremony paid tribute to outstanding athletes, coaches and sports administrators while acknowledging the support of departments and directorates that contribute to sporting success on campus. Eleven award categories were presented, with nine individuals recognised for their exceptional achievements and lasting impact in the Directorate of Sport.
Head of Sport, Dumisane Chauke, opened the event, reflecting on the Directorate of Sport’s milestones for 2025. “This is our chance to look, reflect and remind ourselves of the achievements, the small wins, big wins and celebrate everything that has happened,” she said.
The night’s biggest winner was 18-year-old first-year Accounting student Kwanda Kinda, who stole the spotlight by clinching three awards — Sportwoman of the Year, Sport Star of the Year and Best Academic Performance by a Sport Student.
Kwanda Kinda, clinched three awards — Sportwoman of the Year, Sport Star of the Year and Best Academic Performance by a Sport Student.
Raised in a family of athletes, Kwanda said discipline and balance are key to her success. “I make time for both sport and education to keep the balance. When I feel tired, I allow myself a break. My discipline, persistence and consistency have been paying off, especially with the support and motivation from my coach, family and teammates,” she said.
Meanwhile, Tshepo Jama reclaimed the Sportman of the Year 2025 title, reaffirming his dominance in campus sports.
Long-time mentor Lovedalia Ledwaba was crowned Coach of the Year for the fifth consecutive time, an achievement that underscores her dedication and leadership. “This recognition is a reminder that my efforts have a meaningful impact on the players and the sport community,” she said, adding that her six-year coaching journey has been driven by her team’s determination and growth.
Recognised as South Africa’s top team for the past five years, the Ga-Rankuwa aerobics Team, coached by Lovedalia Ledwaba, was also recognised at the 2025 Sport Awards.
The evening concluded with a special surprise - both main winners received an all-expenses-paid weekend getaway to Shai Shai Hills Hotel and Resort in northern Pretoria, a fitting reward for their excellence and hard work.