The South African Youth Chin Woo Kungfu Team has emerged victorious as the 2025 Southern Africa International Youth Kungfu Champions following an epic weekend of fierce competition at Fairbairn College, Goodwood.
The prestigious event, hosted by renowned Legends of Kungfu Champion ShiGong Muhammad Junaid Chafeker, also known as M.J. Li, saw Team SA claim 12 gold, seven silver, and six bronze medals, cementing their dominance in the region.
Botswana and Zambia secured second and third places, respectively, with commendable performances by Zimbabwe, Malawi, Mozambique, and Tanzania. However, the home team proved too strong, delighting the hundreds of spectators and special guests in attendance.
A showcase of skill and dedication
The championship was more than just a martial arts tournament. It symbolised the power of youth empowerment and the promotion of discipline, sportsmanship, and personal growth. Councillor Avron Plaatjies from the City of Cape Town emphasised the event’s significance in his address:
“This is how you build your future. The M.J. Li Foundation and the African Youth Kungfu Championship exist to provide young people with the tools to succeed both in school and in life. It is not just about punches, kicks, and trophies. It is about learning balance, respect, and discipline that will guide you far beyond the tournament.”
Partnerships with purpose
The championship was made possible through partnerships with organisations dedicated to youth development, including the City of Cape Town, AWQAF SA, SA Chin Woo Kungfu Association, The M.J. Li Kungfu Foundation NPO, and corporate sponsors such as Auto Monarch, Al Hami Instant Noodles, Fieka Sport, and Osman’s Stores.
Special guests included notable figures like Shihan Imtiyaz Abdullah (UWMAF President), Master Peter Johansen (MASA Western Cape President), Councillor Patricia van der Ross, Advocate Shameemah Dollie Salie (Member of Parliament), and Voice of the Cape’s General Manager, Abdul Aleem Hamza.
Master Peter Johansen reflected on the growth of martial arts in South Africa, highlighting the restructuring of provincial bodies to foster better collaboration and development:
“Martial arts unites us as brothers and sisters. Events like this showcase the success of such unity and the dedication of everyone involved.”
Next steps for team SA
The journey for the South African Youth Chin Woo Kungfu Team continues as they prepare to depart for Hong Kong and China on Wednesday 26 February. There, they will participate in the International Wushu Kungfu Championship and experience Ramadan with Chinese Muslims, further enriching their cultural and competitive journey.
“The next African Youth Kungfu Championship (#AYKF26) is scheduled for March 2026 in Cape Town, with the City of Cape Town once again serving as the title sponsor and host city. The success of this year’s event underscores the city’s commitment to sport, development, and youth empowerment,” says Salma Natalie Doran from the M.J. Li Kungfu Foundation NPO
