Daniel Benson (Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community and Safety Services), Hattingh Bornman (Kouga Executive Mayor), Lionel Mapoe, Chalwayne Lippert (Kouga Sports Council), and Elvina Felix (Kouga Sports Coordinator).
KOUGA – There is something powerful about coming home – not just to reminisce, but to rebuild.
For Lionel Mapoe, former Springbok rugby centre, the journey back to Kouga is a calling rooted in gratitude, resilience, and a deep desire to uplift the next generation.
As Kouga Local Municipality continues to position itself as a hub of opportunity and growth, Executive Mayor Hattingh Bornman welcomed Mapoe’s initiative.
“Mapoe’s decision to reinvest in Kouga is both inspiring and timely. It speaks to the power of giving back and reminds us that true success is measured not only by personal achievement, but by the lives we uplift along the way.”
Forged Through Adversity
For Mapoe, the defining moments of his career were not only the celebrated victories on the field, but the quieter, more difficult battles behind the scenes.
“The moments that shaped me the most were the challenges – injuries, setbacks, and times where things didn’t go my way,” he reflects. “But I had faith, I prayed, and I believed. Those moments taught me resilience, discipline, and how to stay grounded.”
While representing South Africa and lifting trophies remain career highlights, it is adversity that built his character. Rugby, he explains, is as much about mental strength as physical ability – teaching perseverance, teamwork, and unwavering commitment.
Roots in Thornhill: A Foundation of Strength
Mapoe’s story begins in Thornhill in Kouga Local Municipality, where humble beginnings laid the groundwork for his future success.
“I’m so grateful to my family – my mother, my aunt, my Ouma. They made sure I had shoes on my feet and clothes on my back. My Ouma passed away last year,” he said. “My upbringing fuelled the hunger in me to want to make a better life for my family.”
It is this deep-rooted sense of gratitude that continues to guide him. His connection to Kouga is personal, lived, and enduring.
Kouga: A Community of Potential
Growing up in the region, Mapoe understands both its strengths and its struggles.
“There is so much potential in Kouga, but there are also distractions,” he says. “It’s easy for a young person to walk away from their potential because of a lack of access – to facilities, mentorship, exposure, and opportunities.”
Challenges such as gangsterism and drug abuse remain pressing concerns. Yet Mapoe believes that with the right interventions, young people can be redirected toward purpose and possibility.
“If I can play even a small part in assisting, that’s something close to my heart,” he adds. “I want to influence kids positively and instill belief.”
The LM13 Rugby Academy: A Vision in Motion
At the heart of Mapoe’s mission is the LM13 Rugby Academy, a structured initiative aimed at nurturing young talent and creating meaningful pathways.
“We’re building structured rugby clinics and development programmes,” he explains. “The goal is to create consistent opportunities for young players to learn, grow, and be seen.”
While the initial focus is on rugby, the vision extends far beyond sport.
“Yes, sport is where we start—it’s a language most South Africans understand,” he says with a smile. “But I want to expand into mentorship, education, and other areas of development.”
The programme is set to launch in early September, with plans already underway behind the scenes to ensure a strong and sustainable foundation.
Building Partnerships for Lasting Impact
Mapoe emphasises that meaningful change requires collaboration. He is working closely with Kouga Municipality and the Kouga Sports Council to ensure the initiative is effectively implemented.
“It’s about building something special – creating systems, developing coaches, and getting the right support in place,” he explains.
Local businesses and stakeholders are also encouraged to play an active role, whether through sponsorship, resources, or direct involvement.
Empowering Youth Beyond the Field
While rugby is the entry point, Mapoe’s broader mission is youth empowerment in all its forms.
“To young people, I would say: believe in yourself, stay disciplined, and be patient. Your environment doesn’t have to limit your future.”
He is equally passionate about supporting those who may not pursue sport professionally.
“Not everyone will make it in sport, and that’s okay,” he says. “My goal is to create opportunities for growth in mindset, skills development, and confidence.”
Mentorship is central to this vision – guiding young people not only as athletes, but as individuals preparing for life’s challenges.
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