Springbok rugby star Cheslin Kolbe has opened up about growing up in Scottsville, Kraaifontein, where gangsterism, drug-related crime and poverty shaped the environment around him. The talented winger revealed how rugby helped him avoid falling into a life of crime and inspired him to give back to communities facing similar challenges.

Speaking on the For the Love of Rugby South Africa podcast alongside former Stormers and Springbok teammate Steven Kitshoff, Kolbe reflected on the difficult circumstances of his childhood and the experiences that shaped him into the person he is today.

Kolbe described Scottsville, Kraaifontein, as a community where gangsterism, narcotics and poverty were among the most pressing challenges facing residents.

The Springbok star recalled how violence was so common that children often continued playing in the streets even when gunshots rang out nearby.

“If you ask anyone, the first thing that comes to mind is gangsterism, narcotics, poverty,” Kolbe said, reflecting on the environment in which he grew up.

He explained that these experiences became normal for children who were constantly exposed to violence from a young age.

“The way I look back at it now, that was the norm for us growing up in that environment, because that's all we knew, that's all we saw and that's what we got exposed to at quite a young age,” he said, as reported by SA Rugby Magazine.

Despite the hardships, Kolbe said he would not change his upbringing, explaining that those experiences helped strengthen him mentally and personally.

For Kolbe, rugby was more than a sport. It offered him an opportunity to pursue a different future instead of becoming involved in gangsterism or selling drugs.

The internationally acclaimed winger said he remains grateful for the opportunities rugby has given him and wants to use his success to make a difference in the lives of young people.

“What inspires or challenges me more, for what the rugby has given me, that escape from falling into the easy route of being a gangster, selling narcotics or whatever the case might be, is just wanting to go back into not just my community but across South Africa, because there are so many other communities faced with similar challenges,” he said.

His experiences have shaped his desire to reach children who are growing up in difficult circumstances, particularly those who may struggle to see opportunities beyond their immediate surroundings.

Kolbe said he hopes to return to communities like the one where he grew up and mentor children who are exposed to similar challenges.

“I want to go back there and be a mentor, or inspire the young kids, to show them it doesn't matter your circumstances or the challenges you're going through,” he said.

His message highlights the importance of providing young people with opportunities to participate in sport and develop skills that can help them build a better future.

Although Kolbe has achieved international success with the Springboks, his reflections show that his connection to his roots remains an important part of his journey.

For Kolbe, giving back is about more than celebrating his achievements. It is about helping the next generation recognise that their circumstances do not have to determine their future.

Cheslin Kolbe Opens Up About Escaping Gangsterism in Kraaifontein Through Rugby - Briefly.co.za