WHAT began as an idea to become the best version of herself has blossomed into a burgeoning professional bodybuilding career and the chance for Illovo’s Marcia Norica Ngubane, 31, to represent her country in the upper echelons of the sport.
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She started her bodybuilding journey in 2019 a year after having her daughter. She decided to take her fitness more seriously and challenge herself in a completely different way.
Since then, she won titles every year from 2021 until last year, having earned her International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) pro card on December 6 last year.
Currently in her off-season, Ngubane is preparing for her professional debut next year with shows lined up for Brazil, Spain and China. Her ultimate goal is to become the first South African female wellness athlete to qualify for the Olympia stage.
“From my first bodybuilding show in 2019, I knew it was something I wanted to pursue long-term. I was inspired by the idea of becoming the strongest, healthiest, most confident version of myself and inspiration to my daughter. I admired the discipline and dedication bodybuilders had, and I wanted to prove to myself that I was capable of achieving something difficult. Competing also gave me a platform to inspire other women, especially women who may feel overlooked or unsure of themselves. Going pro was one of the most emotional and rewarding moments of my life and it felt unreal because it came when I was ready to walk away as I do not have the financial support to keep going,” said Ngubane.
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Remarkably, outside of the physical demands of bodybuilding, Ngubane proved herself as intelligent as she is athletic, with a bachelor’s degree in politics, philosophy and law, an Honours in Social Sciences and a Masters in Social Justice Education.
She works as a personal trainer and creates fitness and lifestyle content to motivate people.
What she needs to compete
Competing internationally comes with significant costs, especially as a South African athlete.
- Flights and international travel
- Accommodation
- Visas and documentation
- Competition prep and logistics
“To compete internationally at my absolute best next year, I need financial support, sponsorships, quality recovery, travel assistance, and continued access to the right training and nutrition resources,” explained Ngubane. She has estimated that flights, accommodation and visas, in addition to all she needs to compete at her best, will cost around R90 000.
Should you wish to support her journey, contact Ngubane on 083 669 2123 or visit her BackABuddy www.backabuddy.co.za/campaign/marcia-road-to-pro-debut.
Her advice to aspiring bodybuilders
“Start small, stay consistent and build healthy habits over time. Focus on moving your body regularly, eating balanced meals, drinking water, resting properly, and being patient with yourself. For anyone wanting to become a bodybuilder, understand that the journey requires discipline, sacrifice, and mental strength. You need to trust the process even when progress feels slow. Learn to enjoy the lifestyle, not just the trophies or recognition. Surround yourself with supportive people, invest in learning, and never compare your journey to someone else’s. Most importantly, believe in yourself before anyone else does,” advised Ngubane.
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