Our current global context has been characterised by societal expectations and physical barriers which have seen a quest for resilience and a quest for determination.
Bongeka Mguni stands at the helm as the example of ambition and the fight for equality, as she was born with albinism and never let the weight of societal stigma and the challenge of her condition to define her.
This has led Mguni to embrace her uniqueness and use this as a source of channeling her strength which has enabled her to carve a trailblazing path in the world of karate, specifically shotokan.
The young girl from Bulawayo’s Nketa suburb showed an early fascination with the discipline, not just for its physical prowess, but for the mental clarity and empowerment it provided.
“I have always known that the color of my skin does not define my ability or my future,” Mguni said.
“People have always looked at me and seen something different - something they did not understand. But I knew that I could prove them wrong. Karate has always been about more than just physical strength. It’s about mental fortitude, and I have always had that in abundance.
“I fight not just to win medals, but to break down the walls people build around differences. Every victory, every challenge I overcome, is a step toward changing perceptions,” she added.
“For me, it is not just about being seen as an athlete; it is about being seen as a person and someone with the power to change minds and inspire others.”
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Mguni’s perspective transcends the dojo floor; but is a philosophy that fuels her passion and resilience in the face of adversity. “I do not just want to be remembered as a champion in karate,” she says, adding, “I want to be remembered as someone who dared to be different, who refused to let society’s views define her. If I can break barriers for myself, I know that others can do the same.”
Her victories in a male-dominated sport are more than just about individual success they are a powerful statement of defiance against societal expectations of what a young woman, especially one with albinism, is ‘supposed’ to do.
With every win, Bongeka shattered stereotypes and forged a path for other girls to follow.
“Every time I step into the ring, I know that I am fighting for every girl who feels overlooked or underestimated,” Bongeka said.
“Karate gave me the confidence to be who I am, unapologetically.”
This June, Bongeka’s extraordinary journey will reach a new pinnacle as she represents Zimbabwe in the African Union Sports Council Region 5 Youth Games in Namibia.
Competing on such a prestigious international stage is a dream come true for this young champion, who views her participation not just as a personal achievement but as a victory for her entire community.
“It is not just about the medals it’s about showing the world that anyone, regardless of their circumstances, can reach the highest level of excellence if they believe in themselves,” Bongeka explained.
“I am proud to wear Zimbabwe’s colours and to be a part of something so much bigger than myself.”
In preparation for the games, Bongeka has been putting in hours of rigorous training, both physically and mentally, to sharpen her skills.
Her commitment to excellence is unwavering, but so too is her focus on creating a legacy of empowerment for young girls, particularly those living with albinism, to follow in her footsteps.
At the heart of this powerful story about Mguni is Keaitse Films, a production company committed to using the art of filmmaking to amplify the voices of marginalised groups.
Rasquesity Keaitse, the visionary behind Keaitse Films, has long recognised the transformative power of storytelling and film as a tool for social change.
Through his work, he has consistently strived to enhance the visibility of individuals who have historically been overlooked, particularly those from marginalised communities.
“For me, film is more than entertainment; it is a platform to spark conversations, change perspectives, and give a voice to the voiceless,” Keaitse explained.
“I believe that when we shine a light on the stories of marginalised individuals whether through their challenges, triumphs, or dreams we provide a broader, more inclusive picture of the world. We start to reshape how people view each other, and how the world views those often left in the shadows like people living with albinism.”
In highlighting the story of Mguni, Keaitse Films taps into a rich tradition of using film to challenge societal norms.
The film's portrayal of Mguni’s journey a young girl with albinism overcoming prejudice to excel in the male-dominated sport of karate captures not just her personal triumphs, but also serves as a broader commentary on the importance of equal representation.
The film aims to showcase how sports, often perceived as an arena of physical strength and toughness, can also be a platform for the underrepresented to assert their place in society.
“We have always been drawn to stories that defy stereotypes and open up the conversation on inclusion,” Keaitse shares.
“Mguni’s story is a powerful one because it transcends the boundaries of sport and touches on issues of gender, race, and disability. By putting her story on screen, we are not only celebrating her individual achievements but also encouraging dialogue about what it means to be different in a world that often doesn’t make room for difference.”
Adding to the impact of Mguni’s story was the perspective of Sensei Taurai Majaya of the Bulawayo Japanese Shotokan Karate Academy (JSK), who has been instrumental in Mguni’s karate journey.
As her mentor, Sensei Majaya has witnessed firsthand her dedication, growth, and the challenges she’s faced — not only within the dojo but in society as a whole.
“Mguni is an exceptional student, and it’s not just because of her karate skills; it’s her mindset that sets her apart,” Sensei Majaya stated showing admiration for her success.
“She has faced tremendous obstacles both physical and societal. Being a young girl with albinism in a predominantly male sport, she has had to prove herself in ways most people will never understand.
"But her resilience, her focus, and her commitment to the art of karate are what truly define her.”
Sensei Majaya spoke about the importance of representation in sports, particularly in martial arts, where women and marginalised groups like people with albinism have often been excluded or undervalued.
“Karate is more than just fighting; it’s about discipline, respect, and self-control. These values apply to every area of life, and Mguni embodies them fully.
When she competes, she isn’t just fighting for a medal she’s fighting to change the perception of what people like her are capable of.”
Through her success, Mguni has become an inspiration not just to young girls or those with albinism, but to anyone who has ever been told they can’t achieve something because of who they are. She has proven that barriers, whether physical or societal, are meant to be broken.
nRaymond Millagre Langa is a musician, poet, orator, independent researcher and founder of Indebo edutainment Trust. You can follow on Facebook @Millagre Ray Langa, on X you can follow on #Millagre Langa, email. millagrepapito@gmail.com or indebotrust@gmail.com
