At just 14 years old, Bonolo Ramakarane is proving that passion, perseverance, and raw talent can take you far, sometimes even across continents.
The Grade 9 learner from Hoërskool Drie Riviere in Vereeniging has been selected to represent South Africa at an international hockey tournament in the Netherlands and Germany this October. It’s a moment she’ll never forget.
“I was so excited to the point where I couldn’t sit still in the car, I started screaming and jumping,” Bonolo says of receiving the life-changing news.
A natural all-rounder, Bonolo shines on both the athletics track and the hockey field. She competes in the 1,500m and high jump, but it’s on the turf that her heart truly lies.
“I get to show off my skills and talent on the field and achieve a win together with my teammates,” she explains. That spirit of teamwork was part of what made her choose hockey over netball back in Grade 8, a decision that’s now opening doors on the international stage.
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She began playing hockey at just six years old, with her late grandfather, her biggest supporter, encouraging her to never give up. Today, she plays for the Vaal Triangle U16 A team and is attending trials for the Southern Gauteng U16 side.
Last year, her school named her Joint Junior Hockey Player of the Year, recognising her as one to watch.
Her dream? To follow in the footsteps of local hockey icon Nomsa Mzizi and one day don the green and gold for South Africa.
But before that dream becomes reality, Bonolo needs help.
The trip to Europe comes with a hefty price tag: R59,500, covering flights, meals, accommodation, transfers, and kit. “I feel it’s too much for my mom to raise alone,” she says.
Her community has already begun to rally around her, with donations trickling in and her primary school boosting her story on social media. However, more support is needed.
“Your contribution will help me achieve a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It’s not just about playing overseas, it’s about learning new skills, being exposed to international hockey standards, and growing into the player I dream of becoming.”
Bonolo is also driven by a deep personal motivation: “I want to make my late grandmother proud. She went out of her way to support my hockey dreams after my grandfather passed in 2021. She paid for every tour, every stick, every need, even when it wasn’t easy.”
Now, Bonolo is committed to honouring their legacy with every stride she takes on the field.
Supporters can follow her journey on social media, with a Facebook page dedicated to the trip currently in the works, and updates available via her Instagram.
Main Photo Caption: From playing hockey at age 6 to representing SA abroad, Bonolo Ramakarane’s journey is driven by passion, talent, and the legacy of her late grandparents. The Grade 9 learner needs assistance after she was selected to represent SA abroad. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: The Grade 9 learner from Hoërskool Drie Riviere in Vereeniging has been selected to represent SA in the Netherlands and Germany this October.
Photo 3 Caption: Visit Bonolo’s campaign hosted on the Back a Buddy crowdfunding website if you can assist financially. Image: Screenshot from Back a Buddy (Opens in a new window)
Photo 4 Caption: After stating at just six years old, today Bonolo plays for the Vaal Triangle U16 A team, and is attending trials for the Southern Gauteng U16 side.
