About us
Ikigai Sports provides exchange programs, mentorship, and growth opportunities to young athletes, bridging South Africa, Japan & Global Opportunities. Inspired by Zukile Ncube’s experience as an educator and athlete in Japan, we focus on cultural exchange for holistic development.
We believe in equipping youth with mentorship, relevant skills and opportunities, ensuring they contribute positively and become future leaders.
About The Founder.
I lived in Japan for 4 years as a member of the JET program whilst working as an English teacher and rugby player. This experience opened my eyes as I had never traveled out of South Africa. However, I was able to gain new skills, perspectives, memories and friendships that will last me a life-time. During this period of my life I had the privilege of immersing myself in the values of Japanese culture. These values revolve around principles of integrity, respect for both individuals and the environment, and a steadfast commitment to a strong sense of morality.
In addition, I learnt that values are an integral component of a thriving and harmonious society, as exemplified by Japan. My experience of Japan inspired me to start Ikigai Sports as a source of opportunities through sports and education for both Japanese and South African people.
My goal is to provide the youth with opportunities to experience new cultures and ways of life so they can be good role models and contribute positively to society. My aim is to promote an awareness and understanding of Japanese and South African cultures amongst student athletes. This will be accomplished through firsthand experiences and interactions that will allow insights into each other’s traditions, values, and ways of life. This cultural exchange will foster mutual respect, tolerance, and global awareness. The objective of our organization is to provide mentorship, guidance, holistic development, and pathways for athletes to discover and unlock their potential whilst contributing positively to society. I believe that through holistic development, athletes will be more cohesive and perform well for the team they represent and the community that they live in.
In addition to the work I’m doing with Ikigai Sports, I also teach and coach rugby at Bishops Diocesan College in Cape Town, South Africa.
Our Services
We provide mentorship, guidance, holistic development, and pathways for basketball, rugby and soccer athletes to discover and unlock their potential whilst contributing positively to society.