LIMPOPO – Seventeen-year-old Rixongile Thamaini Makhubele, a Gr 11 learner from Nkowankowa, is proving to be a force both on the rugby field and the modelling runway.

Her passion for rugby began in 2023 after watching a match at the showgrounds in Tzaneen. Inspired by the sport, she joined the Nkowankowa Rugby Club and quickly made her mark, earning provincial colours and playing for the Limpopo Blue Bulls. This year, she decided to expand her horizons by stepping into the world of modelling.

Makhubele credits rugby for helping her manage her anger issues and now plays for the love of the sport while continuing to excel in it. Beyond sports, she enjoys taking on new challenges, engaging in public speaking, hiking, and even knitting in her free time.

“I create traditional jewellery and sell milky ice pops,” she said. “I have a lot of business ideas I can’t implement due to a lack of funds.”

Despite the risks that come with rugby, she remains undeterred. “Even if I break my leg playing rugby, I will still model. It will only make me stand out,” she said.

To balance her many activities, she follows a structured weekly schedule. “Navigating everything in my life is not something I worry about. Everything has its time,” she added.

Makhubele hopes to inspire others and is committed to giving back to her community. She is seeking contributions for her initiative to help those in need.

“I also clean, iron, and cook for free in exchange for donations,” she said.

For enquiries or support, contact MJ Mmola at 063 739 0481.