FROM HIS FIRST RUGBY BALL TO SHARKS TRIALS…
Sometimes a story comes along that reminds us exactly why we do this.
Last September, Shemie picked up a rugby ball for the first time in his life.
Less than a year later, he has been selected for the Sub Union Zululand team — and next weekend he will travel down to take part in the KZN Sharks trials. 
Just think about that for a moment.
A young man who had never played rugby before. Given an opportunity. Given somewhere to train. Given people who believed in him.
And he ran with it.
This is a massive achievement for Shemie, but also for coach Wian Marais and everyone at the Mduku Warriors. Wian has poured his time, energy and belief into creating opportunities for these young players, and moments like this show what can happen when someone simply opens a door.
Ubuntu Wildlife Trust is incredibly proud to play a supporting role in that journey, helping the Warriors with equipment, boots, transport and opportunities where we can.
And through Ubuntu Threads , we’re proud to sponsor the team’s kit — turning the support people give our clothing brand into something very real on the ground.
But this moment belongs to Shemie.
The hard work was his.
The tackles were his.
The training was his.
The belief was his.
We just helped make sure he had the opportunity to show what he could do.
From picking up a rugby ball for the first time…
to one step away from a Sharks opportunity.
Whatever happens at those trials next weekend, Shemie has already shown what is possible when opportunity meets potential.
Go and show them what you’ve got, young man.
We are all incredibly proud of you.
Ubuntu — I am because we are.
