A football dream that began on the pitches of Soshanguve has taken Grade 12 learner Makhanani Onkarabile Ramogayana to Spain, where she recently represented South Africa in the prestigious Tximist Cup 2026.
Ramogayana, a learner at Curro Soshanguve and player for Curro Academy FC, was selected as one of only two South African female footballers to participate in the international youth tournament through a partnership between LaLiga and Shaka Sports.
Her selection followed an impressive performance at the Shaka Easter Soccer Tournament, where she was identified through a talent development initiative aimed at creating pathways for young footballers to advance their careers.
“I never imagined that playing football at school could take me to Spain,” said Ramogayana. “This means everything to me, not just as a player, but as someone who wants to show other girls from Soshanguve that this is possible for them too.”
The Tximist Cup, hosted in Spain’s Basque region around San Sebastián, is an international youth football tournament that promotes player development, cultural exchange and international sporting participation.
Ramogayana and fellow South African player Ntokozo Michelle Paradzayi earned their places through the Shaka Sports competition pathway, which identifies talented young footballers and provides opportunities for exposure at higher levels of the game.
“What started as a dream on the fields of the Shaka Easter Soccer Tournament has become a reality on the international stage,” Shaka Sports said in a statement announcing the players’ selection.
Tommy Makhobela, Head of Marketing and Commercials at Shaka Sports, described the achievement as a milestone for women’s football development in South Africa.
“This is one of the proudest moments of my journey in football commercialisation and development,” said Makhobela. “Through Shaka Sports and our partnership with LaLiga, we are not just hosting competitions we are building real pathways.”
He said the selection of the two players demonstrates that young female footballers from local communities can compete on international platforms when given access to opportunities and development structures.
Shaka Sports President Tshepo Letjane said the initiative reflects the organisation’s commitment to using football as a tool for development and opportunity.
“Shaka Sports was created to give talent a platform and to ensure that young people from our communities have access to opportunities that can change their lives,” said Letjane.
Curro Soshanguve Executive Head Dr Fannie Sebolela praised Ramogayana’s commitment and work ethic.
“Onkarabile has always had the talent, but what sets her apart is her attitude,” said Sebolela. “She shows up, she works hard, and she earns everything she gets. This selection reflects years of dedication.”
The school said Ramogayana’s achievement reflects the importance of balancing academic excellence with sport, leadership and personal development. Curro Soshanguve has invested in structured sports development programmes, including its partnership with Pitso Mosimane Soccer Schools, aimed at providing learners with quality coaching and opportunities from an early age.
For Shaka Sports, the opportunity represents more than international travel. The organisation views it as proof that grassroots football structures can create pathways from township communities to global football opportunities.
As she continues her football journey, Ramogayana hopes her achievement will inspire more young girls in Soshanguve to pursue their dreams both on and off the field.
