HIS LIFE’S PASSION
Siya was raised by his gran Nolulamile, a domestic helper. His mom, Phakamana, was only 15 and his dad, Fezakele, in matric when he was born. “They simply weren’t able to raise me,” he said. He slept on the dining room floor in his gran’s house and his only toy was a brick he’d “drive” around.
Siya started playing rugby aged eight. His love for the game was reportedly passed down from his dad, who was a centre for Home Defenders rugby club, now known as Zwide United.
He got his big break when he was spotted by coach Eric Songwiqi when he played a match for Emsengeni Primary in Grade 6 against Grey Junior. He was given a full scholarship to attend the prestigious Grey Junior School in Port Elizabeth. “It was one of the biggest moments of my life,” he said.
He spoke no English but his friend Nick Holton, who stayed in the hostel with him, taught him the language and helped with his homework.