For Zimri Leuvennink, life has never been about standing still. Whether in a gym, on a stage or in a recording studio, she thrives on movement, energy and connection. This final-year biokinetics student on the Potchefstroom Campus is stepping confidently into the spotlight after landing a recording contract.
It takes dedication to pursue one demanding career, but Zimri is not afraid of doing a double act. While preparing for a future in biokinetics, she is also building a name for herself in the music industry. One of her proudest achievements so far is the launch of her official music video for her song Alles vir my. This follows the release of an earlier video for her song Stormblom, which is also available on YouTube.
Keep moving and stay active
Zimri is currently completing her studies in biokinetics, a field she discovered in her final years of high school. Having grown up on a farm, she always knew that an active lifestyle would shape her future. “I was always very active and told my parents I don’t want an office job where I have to sit still the whole time,” she says.
From a young age, she immersed herself in athletics, long-distance running, hockey, netball, gymnastics, modern dance and horse riding. It was only later, in Grade 11, that she found a potential career that brought all her academic interests together. “Biology was one of my best subjects, and I love working with people. Biokinetics felt like the perfect fit.”
She chose to register for the four-year biokinetics programme at the NWU’s Potchefstroom Campus, which she says has equipped her with a strong foundation for a career in both sport and clinical rehabilitation.
“I love seeing how people improve and heal after injuries and accidents,” she explains. “I am especially interested in working with athletes, but I will not disregard the clinical aspect of biokinetics.”
From school revue to recording studio
While her academic path was taking shape, another passion was steadily growing alongside it. Zimri already discovered her love for singing when she was a little girl, and her professional singing started during her time at Hoërskool Nelspruit, where she performed in the school revue.
Since her first personal recording in 2020, she has released several singles and an album, and is now part of the Artist Village label.
Her music reflects her diverse influences. “It is like a packet of Beacon Liquorice Allsorts,” quips Zimri, who likes Country, pop and dance. Artists such as Miley Cyrus and Carrie Underwood have shaped her musical taste and her cover of Miley’s The Climb remains her most popular recording.
Zimri has performed at well-known events such as the Innibos Laeveld Nasionale Kunstefees, the Onderberg Fees and other festivals. She has also shared a stage with established artists, opening for Riaan Benadé and collaborating with musicians such as Deon van der Merwe of Touch of Class, Arri Opperman, Dirk van der Westhuizen and Dusty Dixon.
“The reaction of audiences is always special because it differs from venue to venue,” she says. “I also love the recording process and being involved in shaping my music.”
Balancing two very different career paths is not without its challenges, but Zimri embraces both fully. “Biokinetics and singing are totally different, but both very important to me.”
As she looks ahead, Zimri plans to return to her hometown of Mbombela (formerly Nelspruit), where she will practise as a biokineticist while continuing to pursue her music career. “Biokinetics will be my bread and butter, but I will keep working on my music,” she is open to any opportunities that can take her to a meaningful future.
She knows she will miss student life in Potchefstroom, especially her friends, but she is eager for what lies ahead. “I’m an adrenaline junkie.”
For aspiring biokinetics students, her advice is simple: “Persevere. It is hard work, but it is worth it. Everything you learn plays a role because every detail matters.”
With her energy, discipline and passion, Zimri Leuvennink is proving it is possible to follow more than one dream and to find harmony between them.
To see Zimri’s music video on YouTube visit: https://youtu.be/uWtCiEHijf4?si=J6N_1vCnmFTQDiJa
Zimri Leuvennink is excited about a dual career as a biokineticist and singer.
