Iqhawe Week: Transforming South African Rugby Through Black Excellence
The 11th Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week launches in Oudtshoorn, showcasing South Africa's commitment to transforming rugby through empowerment of previously disadvantaged youth talents.
Young rugby players from previously disadvantaged communities showcase their talents at the 11th Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week in Oudtshoorn
Historic Iqhawe Week Champions Rugby Development for Disadvantaged Youth
The 11th Hollywood Foundation Iqhawe Week, a groundbreaking initiative challenging traditional sporting power structures, launches at Langenhoven Gimnasium in Oudtshoorn from October 6-9, marking a decisive step in transforming South African rugby's landscape.
This revolutionary tournament, born from the collaboration between Cell C SA Rugby Legends and the South African Rugby Union, stands as a testament to African self-determination and empowerment in sports.
Breaking Down Colonial Sport Barriers
Since its 2013 inception, Iqhawe Week has emerged as a powerful platform dismantling historical inequities in South African rugby. The initiative specifically targets talent from previously marginalized communities, creating pathways for players from non-traditional, rural, and township schools to showcase their abilities.
"It's vital for these previously disadvantaged youngsters to showcase their rugby talents on a stage like this," states Devin Heffer, Brand and Communications Manager at Hollywoodbets, highlighting the tournament's transformative mission.
Measurable Impact and Success Stories
- Twenty players from the 2022 cohort secured scholarships to established rugby schools
- Mawande Mdanda's journey from 2019 participant to SA U20 representative in 2023
- Multiple graduates advancing to provincial rugby while pursuing higher education
2025: A New Chapter in African Sport Development
The upcoming 2025 edition will introduce the Gavin Varejes Rugby Trophy, symbolizing the tournament's commitment to systemic transformation and justice in South African sport. This milestone reflects the growing influence of initiatives centered on Black excellence and community empowerment.
Through the Vuka Rugby Programme, SWD Rugby Union's participation with two teams demonstrates the depth of local talent and the success of grassroots development initiatives in nurturing future champions from previously overlooked communities.
Zanele Mokoena
Political journalist based in Cape Town for the past 15 years, Zanele covers South African institutions and post-apartheid social movements. Specialist in power-civil society relations.