Strength in the surf: Noluthando Makalima challenges misconceptions about disability

The first Black female adaptive surfer to represent South Africa on an international stage, Noluthando Makalima, says disability does not mean inability.

“Being disabled doesn't mean you can't do something, and in our community, there are misconceptions about associating disability with not being able to do anything. You may see my disability as a challenge, but I see it as a strength,” said Makalima.

She won gold at the 2019 Adaptive SA Championship, qualifying for the World Adaptive Championships. She went on to win silver at the 2020 World Championships in California and became the first Black female adaptive surfer to represent South Africa at an international competition.

“I’m gonna be very honest on this one: at first I didn't feel anything, but looking back now it did change the aspect of people's minds—or let me say the way people view a person who is disabled in our community. Because now I have a new name of ‘Noluthando the surfer,’ not ‘Noluthando the disabled one,’ so it really changed a lot.”

Born and raised in Khayelitsha, the athlete was introduced to surfing in 2014 through the Siyaphakama Development Association.

She competes in the Prone 2 category, which is for surfers who require assistance to be pushed into waves and caught at the shoreline.

Makalima, who has cerebral palsy, relies heavily on her surf coach and team for balance in the water.

“When I look at the people who assist me, I say to myself, I’m so proud to have you guys because not only do I trust you, but you are so special to me. They encourage me to do my best. I’m not one to smile, but when I see my support team, I always have the biggest smile,” she said.

The para-surfer, who is a proud member of the Roxy Davis Foundation, finished 9th in the world at the 2025 ISA World Para Surf Championship.

A multi-national champion and award-winning surfer, Makalima is hoping to defend her national championship at the 2026 South African Para Surfing Nationals. The event serves as the official selection for the 2026 World Para Surfing Championships in November.

However, Makalima needs funding to get to Durban in April for the competition.

“A lot of stress, I don't wanna lie, especially for our management because they had to face a lot trying to raise funds,” Makalima said. “Even us, we are knocking on doors for help, which is really discouraging us from having high hopes that we will go to compete.”