Khanyisa Chawane has played a central role in the Spar Proteas’ recent successes, demonstrating strong leadership and commitment. The SA skipper recently earned her 100th cap for the national team, an achievement which highlights both her passion and talent for the sport.
Chawane succeeded Bongi Msomi as captain in August 2024 and, under her leadership, the team won the Africa Netball Cup and finished as runners-up in the Vitality Nations Cup. The team has just completed two consecutive 3-Test match international tours on the road, taking on the top competition in world netball, New Zealand and Australia.
The Proteas narrowly missed out on a victory in the first match against the world champions and lost the second, falling to a third defeat to the Aussie Diamonds in their final game on Sunday past. Chawane described the series as a valuable test that demonstrated the team’s growth and character.
She expressed that she enjoys her role as team captain and aims to inspire her teammates, and during the team’s trip to Australia, she spoke with gsport about her leadership journey.
You have just completed a three-match series against Australia. What are your overall thoughts on the team’s performances throughout the series?
The series against Australia was a great test for us. Playing the world’s number-one team always challenges you to raise your standards. I think as a group we showed real growth and character, even though the results didn’t always go our way, there were so many positives to take. We’re building confidence, connection, and trust with every game we play.
What would you say has been the highlight of this series for you personally or for the team?
For me, the highlight was seeing how the team stood up to the challenge and never backed down. We had moments where we matched them goal for goal, and that shows how close we’re getting. Personally, just leading the team in that environment and watching the younger players step up was really special.
Since stepping into your full-time captaincy role, you’ve led the Proteas to some strong performances. How have you found the journey so far as the leader of the team?
It’s been a humbling and rewarding journey. Being captain isn’t just about wearing the armband, it’s about connecting with people, understanding what motivates them, and creating an environment where everyone can perform at their best. I’ve really enjoyed growing into that space and learning more about myself and my teammates.
As a leader on the court, how would you describe your leadership style?
I’d say my leadership style is calm but intentional. I believe in leading by example, through my work ethic, communication, and consistency. I’m also big on empowerment; I want my teammates to feel trusted and confident to make decisions. Leadership for me is about guiding, not controlling.
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What have your teammates taught you about leadership along the way?
They have taught me that leadership is never one-size-fits-all. Every person in the team is different; some need encouragement, some need accountability, some just need to be heard. I’ve learned to listen more, to be patient, and to celebrate others’ strengths.
Who are some of your female role models when it comes to leadership and why?
I really look up to women like Bongiwe Msomi, who’s been such a powerful leader for our sport, graceful, composed, and always team-first. Beyond netball, women like Siya Kolisi’s wife, Rachel, inspire me too, because of the way she leads with empathy and purpose off the field. I admire women who lead with both strength and heart.
With Jenny van Dyk and Zanele Mdodana, both former players and now part of your coaching setup, what lessons in leadership have you learned from them?
Both Jenny and Zanele have been incredible influences.
“Jenny has taught me the importance of detail, preparation, and believing in your process. Zanele, on the other hand, has really emphasised emotional intelligence as well as showing a lot of passion, understanding people, and bringing out the best in them.”
They’ve both reminded me that leadership is as much about connection as it is about strategy.
Your career has spanned several years, giving you a front-row seat to the growth of netball in South Africa. How proud are you of the strides the sport has made?
Extremely proud. When I look at where netball was when I started and where it is now, the professionalism, the exposure, the opportunities, it’s truly inspiring. The younger generation now sees netball as a career, not just a passion. That’s something we’ve all worked hard for, and it’s beautiful to witness.
What does it mean to have a sponsor like Telkom supporting South African netball and helping it reach new heights?
It means everything. Sponsors like Telkom are the backbone of our growth; they help us travel, train, and perform at the highest level. But beyond that, they’re investing in women’s sport, in dreams, and in a generation of young girls who want to play in the League in SA as well as play for South Africa one day. That kind of support truly changes lives.
Main Photo Caption: Khanyisa Chawane has played a central role in the Spar Proteas’ recent success, demonstrating strong leadership and commitment. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Khanyisa Chawane succeeded Bongi Msomi as captain in 2024, and has since led the team to victory in the Africa Netball Cup and a runner-up finish in the Vitality Nations Cup.
Photo 3 Caption: Pictured with Assistant Coach, Zanele Mdodana, Chawane describes the recent series against Australia as a valuable test.
Photo 4 Caption: She recently earned her 100th cap for the national team, and this achievement highlights both her passion and talent for the sport.
Photo 5 Caption: Snapped with Head Coach Jenny van Dyk, Chawane acknowledges the crucial role of sponsors like Telkom in professionalising the sport.
