By Tsietsi Msimanga
PETRUS STEYN- When one passes or enter the quiet town of Mamafubedu, one wouldn’t notice or know how many award winners are crammed in the little town. For example, not everyone knows of Nkutu “Balbao” Miya.
Born and bred in Mamafubedu, Nkutu first started as a star athlete until he got injured. He ventured into bodybuilding in 2016 as a hobby. Without a gym equipment, facilities, a personal coach and diet, he pushed himself to become one of the respected body builders in the world.
I was fascinated my bodybuilding and I must admit I knew nothing at first. My idea was to gathered friends and pass time says the Nkutu, whom the locals calls “Balbao or The Gorilla Himself”
I met Jan Cilliers in 2018 and that’s when things got very serious, with his experience, mentorship and belief in that that I can achieve greater thinhgs, I started to behave differently when I was in the gym Nkutu added.
In 2023 Nkutu become the ALL IBFF Africa Champion, making a mark and history in the process. He was invited to Italy in 2024 where he took the runner up position in the IBFF.
“No one will never know what it feels like to get such coming from a small town of Mamafubedu where our staple diet is potatoes. Hearing my name being called on a world stage was very emotional and moving at same time.” Nkutu said.
Nkutu “Balbao “Miya.
Nkutu made history although when he got home he never got a heroes welcome, not even radio interviews or a mention from the Office of the may, MEC or priemiers.
There’s is still a long way to go, my goal is to inspire others in Mamafubedu that talent and dedication will take you far. This things of shortcuts and connections won’t take you anywhere. It’s sad that our. Municipality and officials don’t recognize this achievement, but I’m happy to join the likes of Ikaheng Zakheni Netball team who won the Motsepe League, Twin Mosia whom is a multi-award-winning curator, Ennock Mlangeni and others who are raising Mamafubedu flag high despite no support at all”, concluded Nkutu.
In 2025 he will be jetting off to Russia to compete and hoping to bring more trophies to Mamafubedu and South Africa.
