When you meet Mrs. Gugu Ngema, her passion for netball is the first thing that shines through. From the dusty courts of her school days to the boardrooms of provincial sport, her journey has been shaped by the game she has loved for as long as she can remember.
“I never imagined I would one day become President of KZN Netball,” she admits with a smile. “It was the people around me who saw the potential and encouraged me to step into leadership.”
Her path began as a school team captain a role that taught her the value of teamwork, communication, and resilience. From there, she coached school teams and supported community programmes, slowly gaining insight into the challenges and opportunities within the sport. Today, she leads not just a district, but an entire province.
Outside of netball, Mrs. Ngema is equally committed to education. She serves as a Senior Education Specialist at the Umlazi District, a role that, much like netball, is rooted in shaping lives and creating opportunities.
Building KZN Netball
KwaZulu-Natal Netball is a vast structure: one Metro, ten districts, and two associate members. At its heart are the clubs where grassroots talent is born. Over the years, under Mrs. Ngema’s leadership, the province has not only become well-governed and compliant with national standards but has also stood tall on the sporting stage.
Some of the highlights include:
- Winning Federation of the Year (2019) at the KZN Sport Awards.
- Mrs. Ngema herself being named Administrator of the Year (2021).
- Consistent recognition as a finalist in provincial awards for both the federation and its president.
- The Kingdom Stars’ back-to-back victories in the Telkom Netball League B Division (2024 & 2025), reclaiming their place in Division A.
- Hosting landmark events like the Inaugural KZN Premier’s Netball Cup.
Perhaps more impressive than the trophies, however, has been the province’s ability to overcome challenges from financial pressures to political differences while building a winning culture. “The fact that we can still achieve so much despite our challenges shows how strong and united our people are,” she says.
The Leader and Her Lessons
Mrs. Ngema’s leadership journey is rich with milestones: executive roles in eThekwini Metro, Treasurer of KZN Netball, and now provincial president since 2019. Along the way, she has hosted awards ceremonies, overseen development leagues, celebrated podium finishes, and represented KZN Netball with distinction.
What has she learned? That leadership is about clarity, relationships, and humility. “You have to set clear goals, keep improving your skills, and, most importantly, build trust with people. Leadership is not about one person. It’s about everyone moving together.”
Growing the Game
At the core of Mrs. Ngema’s vision is grassroots development. Under her watch, leagues such as U13, U15, U17, the Super League, and the Premier’s Cup have flourished. These create platforms not only for players but also for coaches, umpires, and administrators to grow.
Her dream for the next five years is simple but powerful:
- More participation across rural and township communities.
- Better facilities and structures to support growth.
- A winning culture that positions KZN as one of the leading provinces in South African sport.
This vision is backed by a strong commitment to partnerships, with Mrs. Ngema working tirelessly to secure sponsorships and create value for stakeholders.
The Woman Behind the Leader
Although her work is serious, those close to her know that Mrs. Ngema has many layers “like an onion,” she jokes. At first, she may come across as reserved, but beneath that exterior lies someone who loves laughter, jokes, and adventure.
Her biggest inspiration is her mother, who instilled in her the belief that “when you are grounded, the only move is upwards.”
Away from netball and education, she enjoys travelling, gardening, reading, cooking, and quality time with family and friends.
What she loves most about netball is the sense of family. “In KZN, we are known for ubuntu we take care of one another. Netball is about building bonds, sharing goals, and creating lifelong connections.”
A Message to the Community
To players, coaches, and fans across the province, Mrs. Ngema has a heartfelt message:
“Netball is a sport that brings people together. It teaches teamwork, communication, and perseverance. Let us keep supporting and growing it, so that it continues to uplift and inspire our communities for generations to come.”
She encourages everyone to get involved: attend games, volunteer, support financially if possible, and advocate for the sport in your circles. Because for Mrs. Ngema, netball is not just about winning matches it is about transforming lives.
Mrs. Gugu Ngema’s journey is proof that true leadership is born from passion, humility, and service. From the courts of her youth to the highest seat in provincial netball, she has remained grounded, guided by the belief that sport can change lives. Under her leadership, KwaZulu-Natal Netball continues to grow stronger, not only in trophies and titles but in unity, resilience, and opportunity. Her legacy is not just about victories on the court, but about building a community where everyone can rise together.
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