Ivory Park footballer Blessing Skhosana (13) will depart from OR Tambo International Airport on September 25 to undergo a two-week trial with Spanish club Levante UD.

He will be hosted by International Student and Athlete Management, IAM360, with the opportunity giving the young footballer a chance to test himself against players in a different football environment and gain international exposure.

For Blessing, whose journey to Spain was first confirmed in January, the trip is the result of months of anticipation, hard work and sacrifices by his family and football club.

“This opportunity means a lot to me as a young player. I learned that I have an opportunity to travel to Spain in January. I was so excited and did not believe that I got this,” says Blessing.

“I want to see myself representing my country, South Africa. My mom has supported me. Sometimes I would be down, but she encouraged me all the time. I would like to thank my coach, my mom and my brother.”

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The young footballer has been turning heads with his performances since joining Dubula Stars, a club under the Truth and Hope Foundation. Wanting to develop his football in a more structured environment, he visited the club’s training sessions at Rabie Ridge Stadium before deciding to join.

The youngster has since made his presence felt at the club, earning recognition for his versatility, football intelligence and performances against older players.

Blessing can play as a right winger, left winger and striker, with his pace, stamina, ball control, distribution, decision-making and ability to protect the ball among the qualities that have helped him stand out.

His development has been closely followed by the foundation president and club chairperson, Sydwell Ramakokovhu and coach Dumisane Meela.

“Normally, at my club you don’t just automatically join and play; you have to go through the eye of the needle. I made them, Blessing and the other players, do a few drills, touch the ball and see whether he had the physique to challenge for the ball,” says Ramakokovhu.

It did not take long for Blessing to make an impression. His performances have already produced impressive results.

He scored five goals in a single match and enjoyed a standout 2025 season, collecting several club honours, including best player of the season, top goal scorer and best youngest player, as well as player-of-the-season honours in the league and at the club.

Blessing’s growth has not only been measured by what he does with the ball. “From strength to strength, he has developed into a better person by not listening to friends’ bad advice that might destroy him out there. Leadership skills have improved a lot, as he is the captain of the club and must lead by example,” Ramakokovhu explained.

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However, turning the opportunity into reality has not been easy. Ramakokovhu said the club approached Gauteng Sports, Arts and Culture, SAFA Johannesburg and potential sponsors for assistance but had not received the support it had hoped for.

Blessing’s mother, Ntombi Skhosana, ultimately secured a loan to help finance the trip. “I’m proud, and without any doubt, his mom did everything. I’m proud to have such parents who sacrifice everything for their children. It really inspires me and many out there,” says Ramakokovhu.

The club has also helped prepare Blessing for the international trip by ensuring his visa and travel documents are in order, discussing the risks associated with football opportunities abroad and preparing him for cultural and language differences.

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