Khanyisa Chawane

"Netball opens up a lot of opportunities. For example, it can help you further your studies by getting a high school or higher institution bursary. Besides that, you can play abroad, which is a dream come true for many. Above all, you can make a living out of what you love."

"Being captain isn’t just about wearing the armband, it’s about connecting with people, understanding what motivates them, and creating an environment where everyone can perform at their best."

"I’d say my leadership style is calm but intentional. I believe in leading by example, through my work ethic, communication, and consistency. I’m also big on empowerment; I want my teammates to feel trusted and confident to make decisions."

"Leadership for me is about guiding, not controlling."

"They have taught me that leadership is never one-size-fits-all. Every person in the team is different; some need encouragement, some need accountability, some just need to be heard. I’ve learned to listen more, to be patient, and to celebrate others’ strengths."

"When I look at where netball was when I started and where it is now, the professionalism, the exposure, the opportunities, it’s truly inspiring."

"The younger generation now sees netball as a career, not just a passion."

"I always strive to better myself and give my best on and off court."

"I tell myself that what I do now counts for what lies ahead! So not focusing on the future but making sure I give my very best at each task now because later I will reap the rewards."

"Lastly, that little netball player that we inspire, will get to see live how it is possible to reach your dream."

"Where you come from or even how you look doesn’t determine where you are going. It is important to know where you want to be in order to set goals and chase them. Believing in God and believing in yourself is vital to achieving your dreams."

"I’ve got goals to achieve so I need to keep working."

"The decision to continue chasing your dreams and not focusing on the loss is also one of the most difficult decisions in life, but it has made me who I am today."

"Having doubts about yourself is inevitable, however, it is important to use those negative thoughts and emotions to keep you motivated and continue pushing on."

"We have provincial teams that consist of national players, which can be used to reach out and conduct clinics for the less fortunate. I also believe that young netball players should have access to netball facilities that are well-equipped and looked after."

"Difficult circumstances don’t determine who you will be or where you will go, you can use them to become a better person and example. I love netball because it is an escape, but you also learn life lessons from it."

"Netball opens a lot of doors and it’s helped me become a person I never thought I would be."

"What’s what makes a good leader, your actions in the present, it’s not always necessary to talk so much, you must lead by example."