Badminton is rapidly growing, and Hadiyah Carrim is helping drive its rise among young female players. The Durban Girls’ College pupil has excelled since picking up the sport and recently represented the KZN A team at the U19 Badminton Championships.
Like most other sportswomen, Carrim has to rely on financial support from her family in order to pursue her sport. Thanks to her enterprising dad, who assisted her in finding sponsors, she is able to have that much-needed financial backing that can assist her in reaching new heights.
Carrim is passionate about her sport and explains how her love for Badminton started when her sister Zahra needed a partner to practice. Like they say, the rest is history, and Carrim is now carving her path in the sport.
The Grade 12 student shared some precious time with gsport as she prepares for her matric trial exams to chat about how her love for the game transcends the sport, her future plans in Badminton, and her powerful message to potential sponsors.
How did your journey in Badminton begin?
“My journey in Badminton started thanks to my sister, Zahra. She had just begun playing and needed someone to practice with at home. Since I was the only available sibling, I stepped in, and I enjoyed it. She taught me the basics, I got the hang of it, and grew genuinely interested in the sport. In 2017, when I was ten years old, I officially joined the KZN Badminton Club. From that moment, I fell in love with Badminton and have continued playing ever since.”
What is it about this sport that you love?
“I love the way Badminton makes me feel – exhilarated, alive, and free. It’s my escape from reality. Beyond the thrill of competing, I value the friendships I’ve made along the way. The sport has given me lifelong memories and connections, which makes it even more meaningful.”
You were recently at the U19 Championships. How did that go?
“The U19 Championships went really well. Our KZN A team finished fourth after a very close match against Jozi. For the individual events, I made it to the third round in singles before losing to Chloe Lai from Jozi. In girls’ doubles, I reached the semifinals with my partner, Callista Ramowtar. I couldn’t have asked for a better partner – she truly is the best doubles partner I could wish for, and I’m proud of what we achieved together.”
You have been performing well in your sport. What are some of your biggest achievements in Badminton?
“Two of my proudest achievements are representing South Africa in international competitions.
In 2021, I competed in the All Africa U15 Championship in Benin, and in 2024, I represented South Africa again at the All Africa U19 Championship in Senegal. These opportunities have been highlights of my sporting career so far.”
For many sportswomen in South Africa, pursuing their chosen sport comes with financial commitments. What has that been like for you?
“It has definitely been challenging. Badminton requires travel, equipment, coaching, and tournament fees, and those costs add up quickly. My family has been incredibly supportive, but it isn’t always easy to manage financially. Still, I’m grateful for every opportunity I’ve had to play and represent my province and country.”
Do you receive much funding from the Badminton Federation?
“Unfortunately, no. All of the expenses come from my family and a few sponsors. Players often need to cover the costs themselves, especially when it comes to international tournaments.”
“Without Sponsors like Telkom, We Would Not Have a Platform like the TNL” – Gauteng Golden Fireballs Star Tarle Mathe
2025 TNL champs Golden Fireball star Tarle Mathe knows the importance of financial backing as…
Isuzu Powers Women’s Rugby Forward as Title Sponsor of the Bulls Daisies
SA’s only fully professional women’s rugby team, Bulls Daisies, sign new Naming Rights sponsor Isuzu…
Nadine Roos Eager to Get Going at the Women’s Rugby World Cup
Sunday’s Women’s Rugby World Cup opener between South Africa and Brazil in Northampton may be…
10-Goal Thriller Steals the Show in Hollywoodbets Super League Weekend Results
Ten goals, big upsets, and tight battles! Week 22 of the Hollywoodbets Super League had…
Hat-Trick Tayla Kavanagh Defends her Maritzburg 10km Title Again
Setting a remarkable benchmark, Tayla Kavanagh has won the Maritzburg SPAR Women’s 10km Challenge for…
The Stars are Aligned
From applying to work on the #gsport20 campaign to being front and centre at the…
Do you have any sponsors? If so, what was that process like securing that backing?
“Yes, I have been fortunate to receive sponsorships in the past. My dad reached out to a few businesses on my behalf, and through his efforts, I was able to secure sponsors who believed in my journey. I proudly represented them at my tournaments, carrying their names with me on and off the court. For example, I have been sponsored by Spice World, as well as Bargain House, Global Car Audio, and Chevda Delights.”
What message do you have to possible sponsors to give your support and financial backing?
“To any potential sponsors, I’d say that investing in me is not just investing in one player – it’s investing in the growth of Badminton and women’s sports in South Africa.
I am passionate, hardworking, and dedicated to representing both my community and my country with pride. With the right support, I know I can achieve even more and inspire other young athletes to chase their dreams.”
How do you juggle being in school and playing your sport?
“It can be tough to balance, especially in matric, but I’ve learned to manage my time carefully. I try to prioritise schoolwork during the day and dedicate evenings or weekends to training and tournaments.
My family, teachers, and coaches are really supportive, which helps a lot. It’s not always easy, but I believe the discipline I’ve developed through Badminton also helps me in my studies.”
What are your career goals when it comes to Badminton?
“My ultimate goal is to keep improving and compete at the highest level possible, including more international tournaments. Representing South Africa at senior level, I’d love to try out for the All Africa Senior Championship. Beyond competing, I’d also love to give back to the sport one day by helping grow Badminton among young players, especially the deaf community (I have had the opportunity to be the face for the deaf community for Badminton South Africa) in South Africa.”
What would be your message to young girls who are looking to take up Badminton?
“I would tell them just go for it! Badminton is not only fun but also teaches you discipline, teamwork, and resilience. Don’t be afraid to start, even if you feel like you don’t know much. With practice and passion, you can go far. Most importantly, enjoy the journey, make friends, and cherish the experiences the sport gives you – they’ll stay with you for life. I believe every girl who picks up a racket adds to the future of Badminton in South Africa. Dream big, keep pushing, and know that your effort can inspire others, too.”
Main Photo Caption: The sport of Badminton is on a growth path, and Hadiyah Carrim is helping drive its rise among young female players. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: The Durban Girls pupil has excelled since picking up the sport, and recently represented the KZN A team at the U19 Badminton Championships.
Photo 3 Caption: “To any potential sponsors, I’d say that investing in me is not just investing in one player – it’s investing in the growth of Badminton.
