‘I feel invigorated than ever’ – Damian Willemse named on Forbes Africa 30 under 30 list

by Sergio Miller

Springbok and Stormers rugby player Damian Willemse is on cloud nine following the recent announcement of his inclusion on the Forbes Africa 30 under 30 list.

The list aims to identify the 30 most impactful individuals under the age of 30 across diverse fields on the African continent.

According to the Business Insider, this year’s theme was focused around “Passion, Purpose and a Decade of the 30 Under 30 List.”

When it comes to passion – there is none better than our sportsman, the Springboks. The group brought tears to the eyes of millions of South Africans as they lifted the 2023 Rugby World Cup for a record fourth time.

At the heart of this was Damian who not only won the trophy back-to-back but became the youngest-ever rugby player to win two world cups – the first being in 2019.

While the 25-year-old can boast about many of his on-field successes when it comes to rugby, his impact on society is not secluded to the sports arena.

The Springbok fullback prides himself on leaving the world in a much better place by getting involved in humanitarian work.

Two years ago, he collaborated with Vida’e Caffe and One Tree Planted to encourage reforestation and address climate change by ensuring that more trees are planted in various parts of Cape Town. Alongside Siya Kolisi he is also the ambassador for Adidas Run for the Oceans campaign.

Reacting to the news of being on the Forbes 30 under 30 list he said the following:

“To be recognised amongst so many great change-makers across the African continent is a truly humbling experience and speaks volumes to the talent of Africa’s young creator force,” he said.

He continued, “To be able to create a positive impact in society as an individual on and off the pitch to inspire the next generation of young South Africans to think differently about their future has always been a goal of mine.

“We stand on the shoulders of those who have come before us and I feel more invigorated than ever to maintain my focus on creating change on and off the pitch.”

Meanwhile, Damian is not the only South African on the list, others include TikToker Chad Jones, Tyla, Blood and Water actress Ama Qamata as well as women’s rugby player Nadine Roos to name a few.

Also see: Boks players get World Cup tattoos