Glo en harde werk vorm o.a. deel van Elizma se wenresep. Die aanmoediging van 'n ouma is van onskatbare waarde vir 'n kleinkind. En die ondersteuning van haar gesin en familie wat in haar glo, is deel van Elizma se besondere reis.
Baie geluk en baie sterkte. Ons is saam met julle trots op hierdie uitsonderlike prestasie. Elizma se pa het haar reis in 'n paar bladsye opgesom. Mag dit ander wat op hierdie stadium klippe kou en wonder of uithou en aanhou die moeite werd is, tot aansporing dien.
From Humble Beginnings to Provincial Champion
Elizma’s passion for karate began at the tender age of 10, inspired by the gentle encouragement of her grandfather. From those early days, her interest blossomed through the influence and support of her family. Little did she know that the path ahead would be filled with challenges and hurdles, demanding perseverance and grit. Her journey to success commenced with her enrolment in JKA Karate, where she began learning the art of self-control, discipline, and the fine techniques that form the foundation of this martial art.Early Challenges and Determination
The road to victory was not an easy one. Elizma faced numerous obstacles, endured failures, and missed several competitions along the way. But her determination never wavered. She focused on her goal: to become a national medallist. Her unwavering commitment led her to surpass expectations, skipping grades and progressing rapidly under the guidance of her sensei and supportive teammates. By the age of 14, Elizma had gathered the courage to enter her first-ever competition. It was an uncharted territory for her, filled with uncertainty, but she chose to step forward on the road less travelled.
Facing the Regional Competition
Elizma participated in the SA JKA Regional Competition, a prestigious and highly competitive event where she faced off against provincial champions. Despite being a brown belt competing against higher-grade opponents, she refused to shy away. Intimidated but determined, she drew upon every ounce of strength and faced her fears head-on. Overwhelmed by doubt, a motivational boost from her sensei, father, and friends reignited her courage. In that pivotal moment, she felt the grace of God guiding her through the nerve-wracking experience.
Elizma participated in the SA JKA Regional Competition, a prestigious and highly competitive event where she faced off against provincial champions. Despite being a brown belt competing against higher-grade opponents, she refused to shy away. Intimidated but determined, she drew upon every ounce of strength and faced her fears head-on. Overwhelmed by doubt, a motivational boost from her sensei, father, and friends reignited her courage. In that pivotal moment, she felt the grace of God guiding her through the nerve-wracking experience.
Triumph Against All Odds
With renewed bravery, Elizma faced her opponents with resilience and strength. Her efforts bore fruit as she finished in second and third place, earning her provincial colours. The realization of her achievement dawned slowly—she had emerged as the Northern Cape JKA Champion, a title that marked a significant milestone in her karate career. This victory filled her with pride and boosted her self-esteem, but Elizma knew the journey was far from over.
Preparing for Nationals
With only three months remaining until the South African National Competition, Elizma plunged into intense preparation. The stakes were higher than ever, and her daily routine was marked by effort, hard work, and steadfast determination. She embraced the obstacles ahead, viewing them as stepping stones to her dream. The countdown to nationals had begun, and Elizma was ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.
Her journey serves as a testament to the power of perseverance, faith, and the unwavering determination to succeed. Elizma’s story is one of courage, resilience, and the indomitable spirit that drives individuals to overcome their fears and achieve greatness. As the South African National Competition approaches, she stands as a shining example of what can be accomplished through dedication and belief in oneself.
The day Has Come
As the day approached, Elizma embarked on yet another defining moment in her journey. On the 23rd of May 2025, she boarded SA Airlink for her first-ever flight, filled with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Her destination? The great golden city of Johannesburg, Gauteng, where dreams and challenges awaited. The adrenaline coursing through her veins was indescribable as she soared above the landscapes, marking a new milestone in her life.
Arriving at the Golden City
Landing at OR Tambo International Airport, Elizma was welcomed by her great aunt Annalize and uncle Jaco, who accompanied her during the hours leading up to the monumental event—the SA JKA National Karate Competition, held in conjunction with the African Cup of Nations. This prestigious event, hosted at the iconic Ellis Park Stadium, boasted over 5,000 competitors from across South Africa and the continent. Time seemed to stretch and bend as nerves, fear, and self-doubt crept in. But Elizma knew this moment required absolute focus, unwavering faith, and the strength she had built over years of dedication. With the comforting knowledge that her Heavenly Father would guide her once more; she steadied herself for the challenge ahead.
The Test of Time
The competition began with intensity, and Elizma faced her first opponent, securing a flawless victory that bolstered her confidence further. Yet, greater challenges lay ahead. Her next opponent was none other than the defending national champion from Gauteng, a formidable adversary. With determination, Elizma triumphed again without faltering. Her journey continued as she faced the Western Province Champion, claiming yet another flawless victory. It was only then that she realized the magnitude of her group—a daunting 18 competitors. Undeterred, she fought valiantly, steadily advancing through each match.
The final road to victory
By the time only four competitors remained, Elizma found herself tested to the limits. Despite her resilience, she endured her first loss in the tournament. Discouraged but not defeated, she regrouped for one final match. The moment came to an end, and as her name was called out to receive her medal and SA JKA National Colours, a wave of emotion swept over her. She had made it. Her dream had come true.
A Final Word
Elizma’s journey to the SA JKA National Karate Competition will forever serve as a testament to her unwavering determination, the strength of faith, and the courage to embrace every challenge. From the skies above Johannesburg to the arena of Ellis Park Stadium, she proved how a steadfast heart and resolute mind can transform dreams into reality, marking an unforgettable chapter in her story of perseverance and triumph.
This letter was written by Elizma’s Father.
Elizma, thank you for your hard work and believe in our Heavenly Father, through faith you can change the stars.
Love,
Mom, Dad and Melane
[Aangestuur deur Elsa Minne]