First-year student at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Ms Hadiyah Carrim, sees badminton as more than a sport.
For her, it has also been a journey she began at the early age of 10 during which she has learnt about discipline. The sport has now earned her recognition through the Prestige Sports Scholarship.
Carrim joined the KZN Badminton Club in 2017 and since then has progressed to compete at provincial and national levels for KwaZulu-Natal at major competitions, including the All-Africa Championships at the age of 15 while also representing the KZN ‘A’ team at the U19 Championships. Said Carrim: “Badminton has taught me discipline, perseverance, time management and how to remain committed even when things become difficult. Alongside sport, I have always valued my academics and strive to maintain a balance between studies and sporting commitments,” she says.
Pursuing a demanding degree while training, travelling and competing has required careful planning and consistency. Currently doing her first year in a Bachelor of Commerce in Accounting degree, her qualification choice was spiked by her interest in business, finance and working with numbers. She hopes to build a successful career in the accounting and financial sector and ultimately qualify as a professional accountant. “I chose Accounting because I believe it provides a strong foundation for a wide range of career opportunities. I also wanted to pursue a qualification that would challenge me academically while giving me practical skills that I can use in the future,” she said.
Carrim says the award is recognition for years of commitment to the sport and provides an opportunity to continue pursuing both her academic and sporting ambitions. “Receiving this scholarship is recognition of the hard work, sacrifices, and commitment I have put into the sport,” she says. “It also motivates me to continue working hard both on and off the court.”
Carrim credits her family and coaches for playing a significant role in her journey. Their encouragement anrd support have helped her progress from a young player to an athlete competing at a high level.
Her coach Mr Ivan Botha commented: “Carrim has been with us for a long time and progressed well in her ranks; she is very disciplined, dedicated, and consistent and we are proud of how far she has come.”
Carrim hopes her journey inspires other young athletes to realise that they do not have to choose between academics and sport. With dedication, support and good time management, it is possible to pursue both.
Words: Ayanda Radebe
Photograph: Sethu Dlamini and Supplied