International wheelchair tennis star Alwande Sikhosana returns to Harding Special School, where his journey began
International wheelchair tennis star Alwande Sikhosana received an emotional hero’s welcome at Harding Special School in KwaZulu-Natal on Wednesday, 17 June 2026, returning to the school where his remarkable journey in the sport first began.
Learners lined the school grounds carrying handmade plaques bearing messages such as “My Hero”, “Inspiration” and “One of Our Own” as they welcomed back the former learner whose achievements have elevated him to become one of Africa’s leading wheelchair tennis players.
The homecoming celebrated not only Sikhosana’s success on the international stage, but also the enduring bond between the athlete and the school that introduced him to wheelchair tennis when he was just nine years old.
Born in Umlazi, Sikhosana was introduced to wheelchair tennis while attending Harding Special School after a childhood operation left him with mobility challenges. What started as an introduction to sport quickly developed into a passion that would take him across the world. Today, he is ranked among the world’s top wheelchair tennis players and is recognised as Africa’s number one male wheelchair tennis player.
In 2026 alone, Sikhosana competed on major international tours across Asia, including tournaments in Busan, Daegu, Seoul and Japan, where he achieved strong results that helped him climb the world rankings. Following his Asian campaign, he continued his success in Europe, including a notable victory at the Madrid Open. Recent reports have seen him rise to World No. 21 in singles and World No. 19 in doubles, bringing him closer to his dream of competing regularly in Grand Slam events. According to multiple reports, he has become one of South Africa’s most successful wheelchair tennis athletes and a leading figure in African para-sport.
Addressing learners and staff during the visit, Sikhosana reflected on the significance of returning to the place where everything started.
“Coming back to Harding Special School is incredibly emotional for me because this is where my journey began. These classrooms, these courts and these teachers helped shape the person I am today,” said Sikhosana.
“When I first picked up a tennis racquet here, I never imagined that one day I would travel across Asia and Europe representing South Africa. To come back and see learners holding signs saying ‘My Hero’ and ‘Inspiration’ means more to me than any trophy.”
He encouraged learners to believe in their abilities regardless of the challenges they face.
“I want every learner here to know that your circumstances do not define your future. Hard work, discipline and belief in yourself can take you further than you ever imagined. If my story can inspire even one young person to chase their dreams, then this visit has been worth it.”
Harding Special School Principal Mrs Mgandela said the school was immensely proud to welcome back one of its most celebrated former learners.
“Today is a proud and historic day for Harding Special School. Alwande’s achievements remind us of the transformative power of education, sport and opportunity. He is living proof that greatness can emerge from our classrooms and our community,” said Mrs Mgandela.
“Our learners see themselves in Alwande. His journey shows them that disability should never be viewed as a limitation but rather as a challenge that can be overcome through determination, resilience and support. We are honoured to celebrate one of our own.”
The homecoming forms part of Youth Month commemorations and serves as a powerful reminder of the role schools play in nurturing talent, building confidence and creating opportunities for future generations.
As the celebrations concluded, Sikhosana spent time interacting with learners, sharing stories from his international travels and encouraging aspiring athletes to pursue their dreams with courage and determination.
Alwande also acknowledged the vital role played by the Nyatee Foundation in supporting his journey and creating opportunities for young people to pursue their sporting ambitions.
“I am grateful to the Nyatee Foundation for believing in me and supporting my journey. Success in sport is never achieved alone. Behind every athlete is a team of people who open doors, provide opportunities and remind you to keep going when the road gets tough. The Foundation’s commitment to young athletes is helping to create a future where talent, not circumstances, determines how far a person can go,” said Sikhosana.
Nyatee Foundation said the organisation remains committed to identifying, nurturing and supporting talented young athletes across South Africa.
“Alwande’s story is a powerful example of what can happen when talent is matched with opportunity. At the Nyatee Foundation, we believe every young person deserves the chance to dream beyond their circumstances and pursue excellence. We are proud to support athletes like Alwande who continue to inspire others through their resilience, determination and success. His journey from Harding Special School to the international stage is proof that greatness can emerge from any community when young people are given the support they need to thrive.”
