Sensei Monyela makes history
Sensei Sydeck Monyela has become Limpopo’s first Yondan (4th Dan) black belt in WKO Shinkyokushinkai Karate, marking a historic achievement for the province.
PHALABORWA – Sensei Sydeck Monyela, Mopani branch chief, has made history by becoming the first Yondan (4th Dan) black belt in Limpopo under WKO Shinkyokushinkai Karate after completing his grading on January 17 in Pretoria.
The prestigious grading was conducted by internationally renowned karate masters, hanshi Hachem Makki of Lebanon and shihan Isaac Mashinini of South Africa.
The event attracted more than 20 candidates from across South Africa, with additional participants from Zimbabwe and Eswatini, all of whom successfully passed the demanding assessment.
Monyela described the achievement as a collective victory. “This milestone is not just about me. It represents years of discipline, sacrifice, and support from my instructors, students, and the entire karate community.
“I am honoured to make history for Limpopo and hope this achievement inspires young martial artists to believe that greatness is possible,” he said.
Monyela’s accomplishment marks a significant milestone for martial arts development in Limpopo, further strengthening the province’s presence within WKO Shinkyokushinkai Karate.
It further strengthens the province’s representation in the discipline, which also includes esteemed instructors sensei Medupi Lechelele of Mankweng and sensei Phillip Nkuna of Mokopane.
