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Cape Town - Fifteen-year-old Grade 9 student, Ayakha Qhomfo, continues to collect medals at almost every karate competition she participates in at world level.
Ayakha, who is affectionately known as Aya, recently brought home 3 gold and 2 bronze medals at the 9th JSKA World Karate Championship held in Russia.
More than 20 countries participated, including Switzerland, Germany, Russia and India to name just a few.
The medals she picked up in Russia brought her total to 25 in the space of 9 years, which are made up of 15 gold, 3 silver and 7 bronze medals.
Qhomfo said, “Various sporting codes were introduced to me at a very tender age, where I started to participate in drummies, gymnastics and thereafter karate. I was also encouraged by both parents to concentrate on karate because as a female in this violent society, you need a sporting code that will able you to defend yourself when needed. Karate also teaches one discipline, and keeps your body and mind in good shape.”
Karate was first introduced to Qhomfo in 2009 while she was a student at a primary school in Cape Town. She then relocated to Pretoria in 2013 and her mentor in Cape Town recommended a club in Pretoria where she has been part of ever since relocation.
Winning at an international level has been part of her journey in karate as she won gold and 2 bronze medals in Namibia 2016.
Only last week, Qhomfo graduated to black belt and this has inspired her to work even harder towards another World Championship competition that will be held in Germany 2020.
“I feel honoured as a young black women in karate to have achieved so many accolades at the age of 15. This has given me an opportunity to travel the world extensively, meet other cultures and learn different things along the way. Future goal is to start my own dojo club, recruit and mentor youngsters who want to participate in karate”, concluded Qhomfo.
Her parents have vowed to give all the support she needs to reach her dreams. Through her journey, she has been able to balance her studies and her passion. She is a true example of the fact that, if you believe in something, nothing should stop you from reaching your goals and aspirations.
