Ermelo karateka Alexis Maniram (10) heads to Indo Pacific Cup

What started as a fun karate class has led to an incredible opportunity for 10-year-old Alexis Maniram, who will represent South Africa at the Indo Pacific Cup in Mauritius from September 21 to 28.

The Grade Five learner from Laerskool JJ van der Merwe will compete in both kata and kumite.

Alexis joined the karate club in 2025 with her younger brother, Kree, and what began as a fun new sport soon became something she loves.

She trains every Monday and Thursday evening under the guidance of Sensei Madeleine Coetzee, balancing karate with the demands of Grade Five.

What Alexis loves most about karate is the discipline, focus, and confidence it has given her, and she is driven every day by the support of her family and her own determination to keep growing.

Her proudest achievements include winning third place in kumite at the JKA Nationals Tournament held in Johannesburg and achieving her South African colours.

When Alexis and her family heard she had been selected to represent South Africa, they were overjoyed.

“It was a dream come true for Alexis and a very proud moment for our family,” said her parents, Melissa and Preston Maniram.

Outside karate, Alexis enjoys swimming, cycling, reading, dancing and listening to music. Her family says she is kind, respectful and always gives her best.

Travelling to Mauritius is expensive, and the family needs about R45 000 to cover the costs. Thanks to support from family, friends and the Ermelo community, they have already paid the R25 000 deposit.

“As a family, we’ve made sacrifices along the way, but seeing Alexis grow, shine and chase her dreams makes it all worth it.”

Her mother stated that none of this would have been possible without Coetzee.

“Her patience, dedication, and belief in Alexis have shaped her into the disciplined, confident young athlete she is today. Coetzee has poured her heart into every training session, pushed Alexis to reach her full potential, and been a true mentor and role model both on and off the mat – not only to Alexis, but to all the other karatekas she trains as well. We are endlessly grateful for her guidance.”

If you would like to help get Alexis to Mauritius, every donation, big or small, makes a difference.

Donations can be made to the following bank details.
Bank: Standard Bank;
Account holder: V Maniram;
Account Number:
25 790 786 6;
Branch Code: 057529.

“To everyone who has already supported us – thank you. Your generosity has meant the world to us as a family and has brought this dream closer to reality,” the family concluded.