The Vanderbijlpark Campus at the North-West University (NWU) is celebrating a momentous victory after its bodybuilding team delivered an exceptional performance at the National International Fitness and Bodybuilding Federation (IFBB) Championship, held in Durban from 11 to 14 September 2025.

The team, made up of six dedicated athletes, showcased outstanding talent, discipline and commitment. Among the standouts was Paledi Francis Motshileng, a financial accounting student, who emerged victorious as the Senior Men's Physique Under 175 cm Champion. Equally impressive was Thapelo Leputu, an education student, who claimed the title of Senior Men's Physique Line-up Over 175 cm Champion.

In addition to these individual triumphs, the team secured the prestigious Senior Men’s Overall Champion title, affirming their dominance as the best in South Africa.

Both Paledi and Thapelo have now been selected to represent South Africa at the International Bodybuilding Championships in Saudi Arabia this coming November – an extraordinary honour for the athletes, the campus and the university.

Coach Raphael Ntumba expressed immense pride in his athletes’ achievements.

“These young men have worked tirelessly, showing resilience, discipline and unwavering passion for the sport. Their victories are not just personal triumphs, but a reflection of what teamwork, sacrifice and determination can achieve. The Vanderbijlpark Campus has shown once again that we are a powerhouse of talent.”

The victory marks a historic milestone for the Vanderbijlpark Campus, setting the stage for international recognition and inspiring a new generation of student-athletes to push boundaries.

Paledi Francis Motshileng

Thapelo Leputu