Eswatini sprint star Bongiwe Mahlalela has earned two major honours at the 2026 Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Sports Awards, receiving E10,000 and a seven-day holiday package after being named Sportswoman of the Year and winning the International Participation Award.
Bongiwe Mahlalela received the Sportswoman of the Year Award and the International Participation Award at the 2026 TUT Sports Awards in South Africa, where the university recognised outstanding student-athletes for their sporting achievements.
The Sportswoman of the Year title marks a significant milestone for Mahlalela, who revealed that she had been nominated for the award for approximately three consecutive years before finally claiming it this year.
“I continued to work hard, remain patient and trust the process. This year, it was finally my turn and my time to shine!” she said.
She attributed the recognition to years of hard work, discipline, patience, sacrifice and perseverance, noting that her journey had involved pushing through difficult moments while remaining committed to improving her performance.
The prize package includes E10,000 and a seven-day holiday experience covering Emperors Palace, Garden Court, Wink Aparthotel and Pretoria Hotel.
Beyond the awards, Mahlalela highlighted the role of TUT in supporting her academic and sporting development. She revealed that the university had covered her tuition fees from her first year through to her final year, enabling her to pursue her studies alongside competitive athletics.
“I am incredibly grateful to TUT for supporting me from my first year right through to my final year. The university has played a significant role in both my academic and sporting journey,” she said.
The support demonstrates the importance of institutional backing in helping student-athletes balance education and sporting ambitions.
Mahlalela also acknowledged EOCGA, Athletics Eswatini (AE), ETISA, Instacash, Joma Sport SA and REPS for their support. She further recognised coach Willem de Beer, physiotherapist Paul Durand, psychologist Dr Rucksana, her family and supporters.
She described the two awards as a reflection of the sacrifices, sweat and determination behind her sporting career, rather than simply trophies.
Quoting Isaiah 60:22, Mahlalela reflected on the timing of her achievement: “When the time is right, I, the Lord, will make it happen.”
She said the milestone had reinforced her belief that consistency, patience and faith were never wasted.
