Ellen Kleinsmidt

Ellen was born to excel in the sports world. This has always been evident in her excellent performance on the track/field and in the water. Ellen first started a 1- year Higher Certificate in Fitness at ETA, a college based in George where there were many varied sporting opportunities available for the students. She completed this course with a full Born in Africa study bursary.

Coming from Kranshoek and raised by her single mother with her 3 other siblings at home was not always easy for Ellen in terms of financial support yet she has grabbed this opportunity with both hands, and we are extremely proud of her! In 2022 Ellen even represented South Africa at the Africa Champs Life Saving in Egypt and straight after, she started studying towards a Bachelor in Education. This will enable her to become an excellent teacher one day and inspire the little ones with her life stories.

Throughout the year, Born in Africa continued to support Ellen with a sport bursary, as the international trips didn't stop there. In September 2022 she boarded for Italy where she represented South Africa at the World Championships Life Saving. We wish Ellen all the best with the rest of her studies at NMU in Port Elizabeth. We know she'll be a great teacher one day and a fantastic role model for so many little ones who one day want to be just like her!

 Listen to and watch the story of Ellen's achievements during her time in Born in Africa so far;