South African sports advocate Mpho Maphosa is looking to use lessons from international Olympic programmes to grow sport at home and inspire young people to see it as a pathway to opportunity.
Maphosa recently completed the first phase of the IOC Young Leaders Programme, a global initiative that equips young people to create organisations that use sport for social change. She is now working towards full acceptance into the programme, which would allow her to launch her own sports-based organisation under the IOC framework.
She also attended the International Olympic Academy in Greece, where young leaders from around the world explore the history and philosophy of Olympism and the Paralympics.
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“It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” Maphosa said. “It reinforced my belief that any project I start should leave a lasting impact across generations.”
She said her vision goes beyond participation and performance. Maphosa believes the business side of sport must be taken seriously if athletes and coaches are to succeed.
“Passion is important, but without sustainable pathways, it is difficult to build a career in sport. That is why programmes like the IOC 365 workshops are so important, because they give athletes opportunities both during and after their careers.”
She is also advocating for change in education, urging universities to include more practical training such as coaching, safeguarding and first aid certifications alongside academic studies. “Graduates need more than theory. They must leave with tangible skills that match the demands of the sports sector,” she said.
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At the community level, Maphosa wants to restore the passion for sport, particularly among young people who often turn to drugs, alcohol or nightlife. “Sport is sometimes seen as unprofitable. I want to shift that narrative by showing how it can inspire healthier lifestyles and open doors to opportunity.”
For Maphosa, the Olympic values are a personal compass.
“Every role in sport, no matter how small, matters. I approach all tasks wholeheartedly because each contribution pushes the movement forward.”
She hopes to build a sports organisation that balances education and participation, and in doing so, strengthen South African sport from grassroots to elite level.
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