Acelia Esterhuizen is a dynamic young athlete, coach, and referee who is making a national impact through martial arts and youth empowerment. At just 17, she holds a black belt in kickboxing, Protea and National Colours, and a WAKO Gold Referee Card, making her one of the youngest South Africans to officiate at international level.
She is an instructor at Blitz Martial Arts and a coach under the KwaZulu-Natal Kickboxing Association, where she trains students of all ages, organizes self-defense workshops, and leads awareness programs in partnership with SAPS, local schools, and community centers. Her dedication to promoting personal safety and leadership among youth has earned her the Role Model Award and widespread community recognition.
Acelia’s achievements span across sports disciplines, including soccer, swimming, volleyball, netball, junior life-saving, and surfing. She has represented Team South Africa internationally and earned medals at elite competitions such as the Top Ten Kickboxing Team Challenge and the WAKO African Continental Championship, where she also officiated.
From coaching girls’ football at Warriors and Toti United FC to mentoring in community holiday programs, Acelia seamlessly bridges athletic excellence and social leadership. Her story has been featured in multiple local media outlets including Rising Sun Newspapers, South Coast Sun, and Berea Mail.
More than just a champion, Acelia is a force of positivity and discipline, driven by her mission to uplift others through sport. She embodies the Free SA Young Leaders spirit — bold, inspiring, and unstoppable.
