By Siphumelele Madide
At just seven years old, Luyanda Lethokuhle Gumede, a Grade 3 learner at Sarnia Primary School, is already making headlines in the junior golf world. Despite only picking up a golf club for the first time in 2023, Luyanda’s natural talent and unwavering dedication have propelled him to the top of the leaderboard in multiple prestigious tournaments.
In a short period, Luyanda has claimed several accolades:
- Ranked 3rd in his age group across the African continent
- 1st in his age group in KwaZulu-Natal (KZN)
- 3rd at the eThekwini Metro Golf Club in his age division
Adding to his growing list of achievements, he placed 4th in the Boys’ 7-year-old category at the 2024 SAKG Junior Africa Challenge, a competition that attracts the most promising young golfers from across the continent.
His remarkable progress is not only a testament to his raw skill but also to the support system surrounding him.
“From the first time he picked up a club, I knew Luyanda was different,” says his father, Sydney Gumede. “He has a hunger to learn and a love for the game that you can’t teach. We’re incredibly proud of how far he’s come in such a short time.”
Luyanda’s manager, Minenhle Mthembu, shares a similar sentiment: “Luyanda is more than just a talented golfer—he’s a symbol of what’s possible when young kids are given the chance to dream. Our focus is to help him grow not just as a golfer, but as a leader for the next generation of South African athletes.”
In line with this vision, the family has recently launched an initiative: Luyanda Gumede Young Golfers SA NPO, a non-profit organization dedicated to empowering and developing young golfing talent in South Africa. The organization aims to provide access, mentorship, and opportunities for youth from diverse backgrounds to pursue golf professionally.
Luyanda’s story is not just one of individual success but a beacon of hope and inspiration for young aspiring golfers across the nation. As he continues to tee off into greater opportunities, the future of South African junior golf looks brighter than ever.
