For decades, bodybuilding has been regarded as a male-dominated sport, with men often taking centre stage in competitions. However, a new generation of women athletes is challenging that narrative by proving that strength, discipline and excellence have no gender boundaries.
The North-West University’s (NWU’s) Mahikeng Campus women bodybuilders made their mark at the University Sports South Africa (USSA) Bodybuilding Championships held at Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University on 27 June 2026, dominating several categories and playing a key role in the team securing second position overall.
Competing against seven universities from across the country, the Mahikeng Campus team narrowly missed out on the overall title, which was won by their sister institution, the NWU’s Vanderbijlpark Campus.
The Mahikeng women delivered a record-breaking performance, taking control of the women’s divisions and positioning themselves among the leading student bodybuilders in the country.
Sinazo Ndabeni claimed first place in the Ladies Beach Bikini Over 163 cm category and was crowned the overall Ladies Beach Bikini winner. Bokang Matsetela secured first place in the Ladies Bikini Over 166 cm category and earned the overall Ladies Bikini title.
Rejoice Letsoalo took first place in the Ladies Wellness Over 166 cm category and claimed the overall Ladies Wellness title, while Sindiswa Mpelane won the Ladies Bodyfitness Open category.
Their performances earned them national recognition, with Sinazo, Bokang, Rejoice and Sindiswa being selected to represent Team USSA for bodybuilding.
Mahikeng Campus bodybuilding coach Tshepo Baloyi said the results reflect the growth of women’s participation in the sport and the dedication of the athletes.
“As a coach, I am proud to have worked with such a talented group of women who continue to challenge perceptions about bodybuilding. They conquered all five ladies’ divisions at the USSA, setting a new record by bringing home six gold medals and three overall titles. Their success is a result of discipline, consistency and commitment to their craft,” said Tshepo.
“Bodybuilding is where beauty meets fitness, but behind the stage performance is months of preparation, sacrifice and mental strength. Sinazo, Bokang, Rejoice and Sindiswa have shown that strength is not defined by gender. These athletes have become one of the strongest pillars of the Mahikeng Campus bodybuilding team and their achievements will inspire more women to participate in the sport,” he added.
Tshepo said the achievements also demonstrate how women’s bodybuilding continues to grow in university sport, creating opportunities for more female athletes to step onto competitive platforms.
The USSA results highlight a changing era in bodybuilding, where women are not only participating but also setting new standards in the sport.
With their latest achievements and Team USSA selections, the Mahikeng Campus athletes have cemented their place among the top university bodybuilders in the country, while continuing to inspire the next generation of women in strength-based sports.
Rejoice Letsoalo.
Bokang Matsetela.
Sindiswa Mpelane.
Sinaza Ndabeni.
