Growing up in Diepkloof, Michê Minnies learned early that dreams often arrive with doubt.
For many young girls in township communities, football has long been seen as a sport for boys. Instead of accepting that belief, Minnies chose to write her own story.
Today, the 24-year-old striker has become one of South Africa's rising football stars.
From playing for Mamelodi Sundowns Ladies to representing Banyana Banyana and now Diepkloof Ladies, she has built a career that reflects determination, faith and the lessons she learned long before stepping onto the national stage.
At the centre of it all is one woman.
"My mother. I really did not have the perfect upbringing, but she always made sure that I had everything that I needed and would go above and beyond for me," she said.
Minnies described her mother as the pillar of the family, someone who placed her loved ones before herself while teaching resilience and the importance of always showing up for the people who matter.
Those lessons continue to guide her every day.
Faith above everything
When life becomes demanding, Minnies turns to one place for strength.
"It has always been, and will forever be, the house of the Lord. No matter how tough things get out there, there is always one person and one place I can run to for comfort, strength and guidance."
She said her faith keeps her grounded and reminds her that she is never alone, whether she is celebrating victories or navigating difficult moments.
Proudly from Diepkloof
Minnies is equally proud of where she comes from.
She knows the reputation attached to Diepkloof, but refuses to let it define her or anyone else growing up there.
"We all know that Diepkloof can be a bit rough, and unfortunately not everyone makes it out and goes on to make something valuable of their lives," she said.
"But where you come from does not determine where you are going."
Her advice to young people is simple. Believe in yourself, love what you do and remain committed to your goals because consistency eventually pays off.
Life beyond football
Away from training sessions and match days, Minnies enjoys slowing the pace.
Her ideal day starts with a cup of coffee before spending time with friends and family or heading out on small adventures. When she wants to switch off completely, she reaches for a pool cue.
"I also enjoy playing pool because it helps me relax, clear my mind and de-stress," she said.
Finding balance, she believes, is just as important as working hard.
A message for young women
As South Africa marks Women's Month, Minnies hopes more young girls will believe they belong wherever their ambitions take them.
"The future is female," she said.
She believes that every young woman has the potential to achieve her dreams regardless of her circumstances. Drawing strength from her faith, she said she comes from a lineage of people who overcame challenges and achieved what once seemed impossible.
Her message is one of confidence and courage.
"You have to believe in yourself, believe in your abilities and never allow your circumstances to define you."
For Minnies, success is about more than scoring goals.
It is about opening doors for the next generation and proving that talent, discipline and belief can take a young girl from a township football field to the biggest stages in the country.
"Against all odds is my everyday motto," she said. "I want people to remember Michê Minnies as a girl from the township who conquered through it all. I want my story to show young girls that where you come from should never define where you can go."
lutho.pasiya@nationalmg.co.za