As the vice-captain of the University of the Western Cape's (UWC) women's football club, Bongeka Smangele Gamede exemplifies leadership with distinction — both on the field and in the classroom.
Having guided the university team and the national senior women's squad to multiple trophies locally, nationally, and across the continent, Gamede is a shining example of excellence in sport and academics.
Last week, she added another remarkable achievement to her list, graduating with a BA in tourism during the University's spring graduation.
Her accomplishment, a testament to her hard work, sacrifice, and determination, illustrates how she mastered the delicate balance between education and athletics.
Gamede's journey mirrors UWC's commitment to providing students with a holistic experience, combining world-class education with outstanding sports opportunities.
"Balancing academics and sport has not been easy," Gamede admits.
"We travel a lot because many teams we compete against aren't based in Cape Town. So, we're constantly on the road, all while managing assignments, tests, training, and other commitments."
As both a midfielder and defender, Gamede credits her success to the unflagging support she received from the University — both from her coaches and lecturers.
"We have an academic support team that helps ensure we meet our deadlines, attend classes, and receive the assistance we need. If I didn't understand something, they would take the time to explain it to me."
"UWC Sport has been incredibly supportive since I arrived. Our coaches ensure that we get time off if we have exams or tests. It's all about time management and prioritising academics because we're here for our education first, before sport."
Her recent graduation is a milestone not just for her but also for her community and family.
"This achievement means a lot for me, the people around me, and my family. My dream is to play overseas. Now that I have a degree, it's time to pursue that dream to become a professional football player."
Self-leadership stands out among the many lessons Gamede has learned during her time at UWC.
"If you can lead yourself, anything is possible. There's a saying: 'Your dream cannot die while you are still alive.' I've been working toward this degree since I arrived at UWC, and now I've achieved it. The motivation from my teammates who have graduated, seeing their success, kept me going in my studies and football, even when things weren't going my way."
Having guided the university team and the national senior women's squad to multiple trophies locally, nationally, and across the continent, Gamede is a shining example of excellence in sport and academics.
Last week, she added another remarkable achievement to her list, graduating with a BA in tourism during the University's spring graduation.
Her accomplishment, a testament to her hard work, sacrifice, and determination, illustrates how she mastered the delicate balance between education and athletics.
Gamede's journey mirrors UWC's commitment to providing students with a holistic experience, combining world-class education with outstanding sports opportunities.
"Balancing academics and sport has not been easy," Gamede admits.
"We travel a lot because many teams we compete against aren't based in Cape Town. So, we're constantly on the road, all while managing assignments, tests, training, and other commitments."
As both a midfielder and defender, Gamede credits her success to the unflagging support she received from the University — both from her coaches and lecturers.
"We have an academic support team that helps ensure we meet our deadlines, attend classes, and receive the assistance we need. If I didn't understand something, they would take the time to explain it to me."
"UWC Sport has been incredibly supportive since I arrived. Our coaches ensure that we get time off if we have exams or tests. It's all about time management and prioritising academics because we're here for our education first, before sport."
Her recent graduation is a milestone not just for her but also for her community and family.
"This achievement means a lot for me, the people around me, and my family. My dream is to play overseas. Now that I have a degree, it's time to pursue that dream to become a professional football player."
Self-leadership stands out among the many lessons Gamede has learned during her time at UWC.
"If you can lead yourself, anything is possible. There's a saying: 'Your dream cannot die while you are still alive.' I've been working toward this degree since I arrived at UWC, and now I've achieved it. The motivation from my teammates who have graduated, seeing their success, kept me going in my studies and football, even when things weren't going my way."
