Latest news with #KaizerMotaung
Mail & Guardian
a day ago
- Sport
- Mail & Guardian
From Soweto to Great Hall: Football's doctor of dreams
Honoured : Graduates wore Kaizer Chiefs jerseys under their academic gowns when Kaizer Motaung received his doctorate. Photo: Supplied In a week when academia and football crossed paths in a celebration of legacy, Kaizer Motaung — founder of Kaizer Chiefs Football Club — strode into the annals of South African history. At the age of 80, 'The Chairman' received an honorary doctorate in commerce from the University of the Witwatersrand, a rare moment when the beautiful game met the halls of scholarship. This wasn't just a ceremonial hat-tip to a beloved football icon. It was a recognition of a man who built an empire from the streets of Orlando East, reimagined the game for black South Africans during apartheid and created one of the most revered clubs on the continent. Motaung's journey reads like a script written in defiance of odds — with football as both a cultural force and economic engine. When Kaizer Motaung launched his eponymous club in 1970, he wasn't just founding a team, he was making a statement. Inspired by a stint with Atlanta Chiefs in the United States, where he shared the pitch with legends such as Brazil's Pele, Motaung returned home with a dream — to build a professional football outfit with international flair and local pride. He had worn the black-and-white of Orlando Pirates. But now he envisioned something new — gold and black jerseys with a Native American chief's silhouette. Kaizer Chiefs was born in Soweto amid doubt, scorn and admiration. 'We had no resources, no fanbase and no guarantees,' Motaung recalled at the Wits graduation ceremony. 'But we had vision, we had grit.' That grit would turn Chiefs into a powerhouse not only in local football, but in African sport and pop culture. Today, the club boasts more than 14 million supporters. For generations of young South Africans, it was more than a team, it became an identity. I first met Kaizer in the early 1970s through an unlikely confluence of football, apartheid-era travel restrictions and a shared community of resisters. At the time, the segregationist laws prohibited black teams from staying in hotels designated for white people. Motaung and his squad had to be accommodated at the newly opened Palm Springs Hotel in the coloured-zoned suburb of Wentworth, south of Durban. The hotel, owned by the enterprising Twynham brothers, became a safe haven for Kaizer Chiefs — and an informal hub for sporting activism. As a young sports journalist — and through my own ties to the Twynhams — I found myself welcomed into that circle. My fellow football-playing brother Jagethesan John Padayachee and I were invited to join the Chiefs entourage to Umlazi Stadium for a league clash against AmaZulu. We sat beside the legendary coach Eddie Lewis. Lawrence Ngubane commanded AmaZulu's defence. Somewhere in the family albums, there's a photograph taken by The Star's Fanyana Shuburi: two suited brothers walking alongside Kaizer Motaung. It was more than a photo op, it was history in motion. Fast forward to 15 July 2025, inside the Wits Great Hall where Motaung addressed a new generation of graduates in commerce, law and entrepreneurship. Some wore their academic gowns over Kaizer Chiefs jerseys. Others, including Motaung's grandchildren, had chosen Wits as their academic home. The ululations echoed through the hall as Motaung took the stage. 'Nelson Mandela taught us that education is the most powerful tool to change the world,' he said. 'To the Class of 2025, use your talents and skills to empower others and build a better South Africa.' Wits's chancellor, Judy Dlamini, called Motaung a 'unicorn' — a figure of rare integrity and effect. 'Build institutions that not only survive but thrive,' she told the graduates. 'Just as Kaizer Motaung has done.' Vice-chancellor Zeblon Vilakazi reflected on how Wits Football Club defied apartheid. In 1978, they became the first integrated team to play in Soweto. They once beat Chiefs in a Mainstay Cup final — but in the stands, fans had already chosen their revolutionaries in boots. Kaizer Motaung's achievements transcend football trophies. He helped pioneer South Africa's 2010 World Cup bid, served on the organising committee and mentored countless players who went on to represent Bafana Bafana on the world stage. The award-winning entrepreneur received the Order of Ikhamanga in Silver for his contributions to sport and business. But it's his humility that disarms even the most seasoned observer. 'We faced obstacles — financial struggles, logistical nightmares, sceptics — at every turn,' he told the Wits audience. 'But we never gave up. Perseverance, hard work and belief carried us through.' He paid tribute to his wife, Julegka, 'my rock', and to his parents for their moral compass. And he did not forget the fans and sponsors — 'the soul of Kaizer Chiefs'. In a moment that silenced even the click of cameras, Motaung quoted former US first lady Eleanor Roosevelt: 'The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.' Then he added: 'Whether you choose sport, business or community work, success is within your reach. Stay focused, stay driven and always believe in yourselves.' For me, as a chronicler of anti-apartheid struggle and sport, it was a full-circle moment. Kaizer Motaung began his career when apartheid's walls loomed large. He ends it — if it can ever truly end — with a doctorate, a thriving club and millions who call him 'Chairman'. South Africa has produced many footballers, but few become institution-builders, social innovators and national treasures. Now, with cap and gown added to the gold and black, Dr Kaizer Motaung belongs to history. Motaung's milestones illustrate an extraordinary example of sporting excellence: 1944: Born, Soweto 1968: Joins Atlanta Chiefs (US), North American Soccer League Rookie of the Year 1970: Founds Kaizer Chiefs FC 1978: Leads Chiefs into non-racial National Premier Soccer League 2010: Member of SA Fifa World Cup bid and local organising committee 2025: Receives honorary doctorate in commerce from Wits University. Marlan Padayachee is a veteran correspondent of South Africa's transition to democracy, and is now a freelance journalist, photographer and researcher.
IOL News
3 days ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Kaizer Motaung goes down memory lane as he reflects on how The Mighty Amakhosi was born
Kaizer Motaung reflects on the founding and challenges of Kaizer Chiefs FC, now South Africa's most popular football club. Picture: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix Image: Muzi Ntombela/BackpagePix Kaizer Chiefs founder, Kaizer Motaung, has reflected nostalgically on the humble beginnings of what would one day become the most popular football club in South Africa. Back in 1970, Motaung started the club after he returned from the USA where he was plying his trade as a striker for the Atlanta Chiefs. The name Kaizer Chiefs was therefore a natural progression in coming up with a name for a club in South Africa. Motaung was speaking at Wits University as he was awarded a second honorary doctorate in Commerce for his achievements in SA football. Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Overcoming Challenges: The Founding and Rise of Kaizer Chiefs FC 'When we founded Kaizer Chiefs, many thought it was a crazy idea,' said Motaung. 'One of the most significant challenges I faced was starting Kaizer Chiefs FC and building it into the powerhouse it is today.' 'We had limited resources, no established fan base, and a lot of scepticism about our chances of success. But I believed in the potential of the club, and I was determined to make it happen.' Founding the club 55 years ago, it took some time to build a passionate fanbase, Motaung explained. 'There were many obstacles along the way. We faced financial struggles, logistical challenges, and intense competition from established teams. 'But I never gave up. I worked tirelessly to build a strong club. We attracted talented players, and developed a winning culture and subsequently became known as the winners.' Kaizer Chiefs Conclude Netherlands Pre-Season Tour with 2-1 Defeat to FC Twente On Wednesday, Kaizer Chiefs ended their pre-season tour of the Netherlands with a 2-1 loss to FC Twente. Daan Rots opened the scoring for Twente just before the break, before they equalised just after the hour mark from the spot through new skipper Inacio Miguel. The hosts would have the final say though, as Mitchell van Bergen bagged the winner with five minutes remaining in the clash. It brought to an end Chiefs' pre-season tour, with four losses and a win over their five friendly clashes against much-fancied opposition. @Michael_Sherman IOL Sport
IOL News
3 days ago
- Sport
- IOL News
Wits University Awards Kaizer Motaung Honorary Doctorate for His Impact on Sport and Society
Wits University has conferred an honorary Doctor of Commerce degree on football legend and Kaizer Chiefs founder, Kaizer Motaung, in recognition of his lifelong contributions to sport, education, and the upliftment of disadvantaged youth across South Africa. Motaung, a towering figure in South African football, founded Kaizer Chiefs Football Club in 1970 at just 27 years old. Today, 55 years later, the club stands as one of the most successful and beloved teams in the country, and Motaung's legacy continues to inspire both on and off the pitch. At the graduation ceremony, Wits University Vice-Chancellor and Principal Professor Zeblon Vilakazi praised Motaung's journey from humble beginnings to becoming a national icon. 'Dr Motaung's life story is a message on its own. He took a chance, he created something, and his actions spoke louder than any speech. He represents the spirit of innovation, determination, and community.' Motaung, who received an honorary doctorate in Social Sciences from the University of Cape Town in 2022, expressed his gratitude for the latest honour. 'I am very proud and happy to be part of this community. I may no longer be the 'Chincha Guluva' that people remember on the field, but I know that Kaizer Chiefs still plays a big role in the spirit of this country,' he said. Reflecting on a recent Kaizer Chiefs victory after a decade-long trophy drought, Motaung highlighted how football can influence national mood. 'A few weeks ago, we lifted a cup, and the entire country celebrated as if it was the World Cup. I am proud to have contributed to moments that bring joy to ordinary people.' Beyond football, Motaung has played a significant role in shaping the sport's structure in South Africa. He was involved in both the 2006 and 2010 FIFA World Cup bids and helped establish the Premier Soccer League. He continues to advocate for integrity and sustainability in the sport, voicing concern about the ease with which clubs are bought and sold. 'We need to put in place strict rules to protect the league's stability. It cannot be that anyone with access to money can simply buy a place in the league. That is something we must address,' he said. Motaung also took the opportunity to thank the loyal Kaizer Chiefs supporters. 'To the Amakhosi faithful, thank you for your passion, your loyalty, and your unwavering dedication.' Encouraging young people, Motaung urged them to take bold steps in pursuit of their dreams. 'Do not fear taking calculated risks. Life rewards those who are willing to take the stairs, one step at a time.' As he accepted the honorary doctorate, Motaung walked up the graduation stage, symbolically taking yet another step in his storied life. His journey continues to serve as a beacon of hope, leadership, and excellence in both sport and society.
IOL News
4 days ago
- Business
- IOL News
Kaizer Motaung honoured with second doctorate for his impact on society and sport
Kaizer Chiefs founder Kaizer Motaung received an Honorary Doctorate in Commerce from the University of the Witwatersrand in recognition of his role in football, youth development, and nation-building. Photo: Backpagepix Image: Backpagepix In a country where many are only truly honoured after death, the recognition of Kaizer Motaung while still alive is something to be celebrated. On Tuesday, the University of the Witwatersrand conferred an Honorary Doctorate in Commerce upon the Kaizer Chiefs founder and owner. It marks the second such accolade for Motaung, who was awarded an Honorary Doctorate in Social Sciences by the University of Cape Town in 2022. This latest honour acknowledges 'Chincha Guluva's' immense role in uplifting disadvantaged youth, promoting social cohesion, and developing football as both a sport and a unifying force in South Africa. Wits University awarded an Honorary Doctorate to football legend, entrepreneur and philanthropist Kaizer Motaung. In his address, he said: "My love for Wits runs deep. It is an honour to be recognised by this great institution, and I hope that my contributions to society have… — Wits University (@WitsUniversity) July 16, 2025 Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Advertisement Video Player is loading. Play Video Play Unmute Current Time 0:00 / Duration -:- Loaded : 0% Stream Type LIVE Seek to live, currently behind live LIVE Remaining Time - 0:00 This is a modal window. Beginning of dialog window. Escape will cancel and close the window. Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ Speaking at the Wits Great Hall during the university's graduation ceremony, Motaung shared words of encouragement and wisdom with the Wits Class of 2025. 'Be pioneers in your own right, pushing boundaries and breaking down barriers. Use your talents and skills to make a positive impact on our society,' he said. 'Nelson Mandela taught us that education is the most powerful tool which you can use to change the world. I urge you to get involved in initiatives that promote sports development, education, and economic empowerment. Use your knowledge and skills to empower others and to create a brighter future for our country.' A lifelong team player, Motaung said the recognition was not only a tribute to his personal journey but also to the game that shaped his life. 'This honour is not just about me,' he said. 'It is a tribute to the beautiful game of football that has given me so much.' He also credited the club's supporters, acknowledging that Kaizer Chiefs' success would not have been possible without their unwavering loyalty and belief. Reflecting on his relationship with the university, Motaung revealed that his connection to Wits dates back to the apartheid era, forged on the football pitch. 'My love for Wits runs deep,' he said, alluding to past ties that transcended the sporting arena during a time of division and struggle.
TimesLIVE
5 days ago
- Sport
- TimesLIVE
‘No shortcut to success,' says Dr Kaizer Motaung after Wits honour
Kaizer Motaung has always been a man of few words but big on action. But when Wits University honoured the Kaizer Chiefs boss with an honorary Doctor of Commerce accolade at the institution's Great Hall on Tuesday, he spoke like someone who did not want to stop talking, regaling the media and audience with how he started the Chiefs brand 55 years ago. This was a second honorary doctorate to Motaung, 80, after the University of Cape Town bestowed the title Doctor of Social Science Honoris Causa on him in July 2022 for his contribution to football and social development in the country. In November 2023 the South African Hall of Fame inducted Motaung 'for his enduring commitment and positive influence on countless lives through sports and community engagement'. Speaking to the media with Wits vice-chancellor professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Motaung beamed with happiness at the latest honour at the institution he always regarded as one of the best in the country.
