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Life's A Balancing Act For King Shaka International Airport Firefighter, And Springbok Vice-Captain
Life's A Balancing Act For King Shaka International Airport Firefighter, And Springbok Vice-Captain
Born and raised in Inanda a township east of KwaZulu Natal and later moving to Durban's Chesterville township, Zinhle Ndawonde douses flames as an Airports Company South Africa firefighter by day - and leads the Springbok Women's Rugby team as vice-captain on the side. Her career juggling skills have made her a notable 'super woman'.
Ndawonde has been praised for her hard work and performance on and off the field, as both vocations require stealth and a high degree of skill. So, it is no wonder that her success is a source of inspiration for many women and youth.
Sport is a metaphor for combat, and Ndawonde battles blazes and blasts through bullish brutes in both her occupations. At Airports Company South Africa, she is a fire and rescue officer working at the King Shaka International Airport. In the green and gold of the Springboks, she maneuvers as a centre, creating opportunities while fueling the team's attacking energy. When asked about how she balances both careers, this is what she had to say;
"My secret is that I have learnt to make sure my careers leverage from each other. As a firefighter I am required to be fit and strong, this requirement complements my rugby as well because I need to pass a series of fitness tests every month. I have the luxury of being able to gym while at work and on the practice field. I would say get a job that complements your passion this will just make everything simple." Ndawonde says.
Her firefighter role at King Shaka International Airport and her love for the sports field hold equal passion and are mutually beneficial, which is why she has never considered sacrificing one for the other.
The journey was not always an easy one for Ndawonde, who plays inside centre with slick hands. Initially drawn to soccer, her high school only offered rugby. She met resistance from her father due to the rough and tough nature of the sport. He feared for her safety. But as the years went by, she began to excel, earning provincial colours among other accolades. Her father eventually relented and gave her his full support.
"The support I receive from my family and community inspires my success at work and on the field. Both jobs allow me to protect them, serve them and make them proud. Having a strong support system at home plays an imported part in my work life balance" adds Ndawonde
Ndawonde attributes her rugby success to a drastic lifestyle change as part of a conscious decision to do everything possible to make it at the highest level in rugby.
"I started playing rugby in 2008, so it took a long time to get to where I am now. In 2016, when I was first called up to the Springbok Women's Sevens team, I realised what could happen in life if you work hard towards something. It was then that I made a promise to myself that I would do whatever it takes to make it to the top in the sport." concluded Ndawonde.