By Selloane Ntshonyane
- Malebana has already won multiple medals and now needs just over R38,000 to fund her trip to the world championships in October.
- The 11-year-old says she wants to break gender stereotypes and become a role model for young girls in martial arts.
At just 11 years old, Nokuthula Malebana from Atteridgeville, Pretoria, is preparing to represent South Africa on the world’s biggest karate stage, the Karatenomichi World Federation (KWF) World Cup in Japan.
The international championship takes place from 1 to 5 October 2025, and Nokuthula has qualified to compete in the coloured belt division.
A student at Brooklyn Primary School, she only started training in 2022 under the guidance of Sensei Moses Sebopa at the Pepps Motheong school hall.
She joined karate to learn self-defence and discipline, but quickly rose through the ranks. In just two years, she earned a green 2 belt and already boasts a silver medal and gold cup for kata in 2023, and a team kata gold medal in 2024.
Now her dream is just one step away, but she needs help to get there.
The full cost of travelling to Japan is R68,199, which covers flights, accommodation, participation fees, gear, and a visa. Her mother has managed to save R30,000, but Nokuthula still needs to raise just over R38,000.
“This opportunity means the world to me,” she told Scrolla.Africa. “As a young girl from a township, I want to break stereotypes and inspire others, especially girls, to believe in themselves and challenge gender norms.”
Nokuthula says she dreams of becoming a black belt and a role model for girls in martial arts. She also wants to excel at school and give back to her community.
“Your support can make a big difference in my journey,” she said, with hope in her voice.
Details on how to support Nokuthula can be found below:
Pictured above: Nokuthula Malebana hopes to compete in Japan.
Image source: Supplied
