Eighteen youngsters from all over the Cape Flats will be jetting off to Hong Kong in March for the Hong Kong International Kung Fu/Wushu Tournament in Ma On Shan.
The students are part of a free Kung Fu training project held by three-time gold medallist MJ Li, from Goodwood.
MJ Li, aka Muhammad Junaid Chafeker, has been a professional Kung Fu athlete for 22 years, having trained locally, as well as in China, Hong Kong and the USA.
He has already represented South Africa at five World Championships, winning gold on three occasions, as well as silver and bronze in China, Hong Kong, the USA and Mexico.
MJ Li started his visits to public schools in the Western Cape last year and has chosen these 18 students from the 50 schools where he trains the laaities.
Three of the team members are in urgent need of funds to secure their spot in the tournament.
Taufeeq Wyngaard, 13, from Bonteheuwel; Sinawo Yola, 15, from Gugulethu and Lisakhanya Njobe,15, from Khayelitsha are the only three students who cannot afford the trip, which costs over R27 000.
MJ Li says he is appealing to the public and government to invest in this group of students.
“There has never been a Kung Fu team to go overseas and represent South Africa in such a competition,” he says.
“They aren’t officially representing SA, but they could be because they will be the ambassadors for SA when they go over.
“This tournament attracts around 9000 athletes from about
50 countries.
“This is the first time that a youth squad from South Africa will head to the championship, ultimately meaning that the squad stands to make history.
“Most of the squad members come from disadvantaged backgrounds, including Paarl, Wellington, Mitchells Plain, Langa and Gugulethu.
“The three students who are appealing for financial sponsors are kids who have no support system at home, and two of them aren’t originally from the Western Cape, but live here with friends.”
For any form of sponsorship, contact MJ Li on 081 711 1211 or 082 454 3027 or email mjlimanagement@yahoo.com or mjlikungfu@gmail.com.