From Rugby Player to Presenter: Lelo Dlamini on Amplifying Women’s Sport
Lelo Dlamini has made a seamless transition from being a rugby player to a sports MC. Being in the media space has allowed her to stay close to the sport she holds so dear without having to play it.
Her career path was not one she expected to travel. She began guest presenting as a teenager in 2020 on YOTV on SABC 1, and from there, presenting on UJTV, MC’ing at university sports events, and script reading throughout university tournaments were all stepping stones that marked the beginning of her sports media career. She now finds herself as an MC at events, including the Women’s Varsity Football and FNB Varsity Cup tournaments.
Dlamini says her experience as a rugby player has played a vital role in her capacity as a media professional.
“Playing rugby gave me a deeper understanding of the game, the tactics, the intensity, and what it takes to perform under pressure. Transitioning into sports media allowed me to bring that insight to the audience, telling the stories of athletes and the game in a way only someone who has been on the field can.”
“I realised I could stay connected to the sport I love, just in a different way through broadcasting, MC’ing and sharing the energy of rugby with fans.”
She spoke with passion about working in the sports media industry, saying that shining the spotlight on athletes and their journey is something she feels is necessary to inspire the future generation of sportswomen.
“I get to wake up every morning and do what I once thought was just a dream. I love telling stories that matter, highlighting athletes’ journeys, sharing the energy of the game, and inspiring the next generation. Being able to connect fans to the excitement of sports and make every moment feel alive is what makes this job truly incredible.”
Dlamini shared that she takes a purposeful approach when it comes to putting the spotlight on sportswomen, and feels that being an MC gives her the opportunity to steer the perception of fans towards the women they watch in action.
“I am playing my part by using every platform I step onto, especially through my work as an MC at tournaments like Varsity Cup and UJ Sport events, to amplify women’s sport. Being on the mic gives me the opportunity to shape the narrative, highlight women athletes, and bring real energy and visibility to the space.”
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“I am also intentional about creating moments where women’s sport is not just included, but celebrated and prioritised. Whether it is through crowd engagement, storytelling, or simply how I present the game, I want people to feel the value and excitement around women’s sport.”
The MC is also very active on social media, both via her personal account and those of various sports teams and creators. She says the positive trajectory of women’s sport has had a positive impact on her life, opening doors into the sports media sphere as the growth of the sector has seen an increased need for presenters.
“The growth of women’s sport in South Africa has definitely created more opportunities within the sports media industry. As more attention, investment, and coverage are given to women’s sport, there is a greater demand for presenters, content creators, and storytellers who can bring those moments to life.”
“For me, it has opened doors to step into spaces like live activations, match-day hosting, and brand engagements, where I am able to showcase my skills. It has also made it easier to be recognised as a credible voice in the industry, because the platform for women’s sport is continuously expanding.”
Dlamini also spoke about how more women joining the sports media industry has affirmed her sense of belonging among her female peers.
“It feels both empowering and deeply validating. For a long time, women in sports media were present, but not always seen or heard at the level they deserved, so to now witness women taking centre stage not just as presenters, but as analysts, commentators, producers, and decision-makers feels like a powerful shift.”
“On a personal level, it gives me a strong sense of belonging and purpose. You are no longer stepping into spaces wondering if you should be there when you know you have earned your place.”
“More importantly, you are part of a generation that is changing the narrative for the next one.”
She is hopeful that her current work in sports media will continue bringing the spotlight onto women’s sport and allow it to keep growing, and she is determined to forge a path for women who want to join the industry.
“My biggest career dream is to continue growing in sports media across South African broadcasting platforms, while amplifying women’s sport in the country. I want to create opportunities that celebrate female athletes, share their stories, and inspire the next generation both on and off the field. Ultimately, I hope to leave a legacy where women in sports are seen, heard, and valued just as much as their male counterparts.”
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Dlamini was part of the 2025 gsport Awards and says that the experience helped her see the industry with new eyes.
“Being part of the 2025 gsport Awards was amazing, having to witness a room full of excellent women in sports not only celebrating themselves but applauding one another for their hard work and sleepless nights throughout their respective portfolios. This helped me understand the vision and standard that the women in sports have set, and my role is to continue playing my part and ensuring my goals align with that vision and standard.”
As gsport marks 20 years of celebrating women in sport, Dlamini reflected on the organisation’s role in building not just visibility, but an entire community.
“gsport has not just elevated women’s sport, it has helped build an entire ecosystem around it. From visibility and recognition to career opportunities and community, its impact is both structural and deeply personal. As it turns 20, it stands as proof that consistent storytelling and intentional investment can truly change the game for women in sport.”
Main Photo Caption: Lelo Dlamini has made a seamless transition from rugby player to sports MC, using every platform she steps onto to amplify women’s sport and inspire the next generation of sportswomen. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: Former rugby player and sports MC Lelo Dlamini says her experience on the field gave her a deeper understanding of the game.
Photo 3 Caption: “My biggest career dream is to continue growing in sports media across South African broadcasting platforms, while amplifying women’s sport in the country.”
Photo 4 Caption: Dlamini values bringing a unique insight to her work as a presenter and MC at events like the FNB Varsity Cup and Women’s Varsity Football tournaments.
Crédito: Link de origem