Orlando Pirates defender Lonwabo Magugwana has opened up about his challenging upbringing in Samora Machel, Philippi, Cape Town, where gunshot threats and violence were a constant presence.
Growing up in the rough streets, Magugwana, who is currently on loan at Chippa United, learned early how to navigate a community plagued by crime, including mugging and violence.
According to reports, the area’s dangerous environment is so intense that it often hampers the operations of city workers, prompting the Cape Town municipality to deploy specialised policing units for protection.
The talented defender shared his personal story, stressing that losing both of his parents, ten years apart on the same day, added further hardship to his life. Despite these difficulties, he believes the tough upbringing has prepared him for the pressures of professional football.
‘I GREW UP IN A VERY TOUGH SITUATION’: LONWABO MAGUGWANA
“I grew up in a very tough situation. And where I come from, there’s too much violence. You can’t, it’s hard to go to the shop also because anything can happen at any time, like crossfire, gunshots and all those kinds of things. So, I think personally, I became strong because of the things that were happening,” Magugwana told FARPost.
The 23-year-old centre-back, who was once at Ajax Cape Town, joined Pirates six months after the death of his dad in 2022.
“I left [Cape Town City FC] after I lost my father. It was in November 2022, on the same day my mother died, but just 10 years apart. After I lost my dad, I think it was the following year, in June, that I joined Orlando Pirates.
“And I think it’s been an incredible journey. Because I don’t have parents, not having them is a motivation in itself. It’s a motivation for me.”
Interestingly, he understands why he has become the one player his teammates turn to during their personal challenges.
“I’ve become one of the players you can talk to when things are happening off the field. It’s because I’m one player who has experienced a lot of things in life.”
He believes the Chippa United loan will prepare him for the rigours of playing for a big club like the Buccaneers.
Magugwana’s DDC defence partner, Mbekezeli Mbokazi, is flourishing in the first team, and he draws inspiration from TLB’s journey.
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