Jumping Kids ensure that beneficiaries like Nhlakanipho Mphoentle Madisa, who has a congenital condition, become more active despite the challenges they face.

Nhlakanipho is a Grade 5 student at Laerskool Du Preez Van Wyk in Bronkhorstspruit. He was born with Tibial Hemimelia, a condition where part of the tibia is missing, leading to the amputation of his right leg below the knee just before his first birthday.

The Madisa family faced a difficult adjustment period following Nhlakanipho’s amputation, prompting his mother to reach out to Jumping Kids.

In 2015, he received his first walking prosthetic. He quickly learned to stand, walk, and run with his prosthetic leg, keeping pace with his peers.

Before getting his prosthetic, he couldn't play with his cousins and often faced questions about his "different" leg. Once he mastered his prosthetic, the questions stopped. Now, he says he's just like other kids but with “a super-cool leg.”

Nhlakanipho is very active. He participates in sports, climbs, rides his bike, and runs around with friends. He also loves music, singing and swimming.

Q&A

What is your favourite subject at school and why?
Maths. I enjoy solving equations.

What would you like to pursue as a career one day?
I think I want to be a veterinarian. I really love animals. I even get emotional when my mom wants to kill insects or other pests around the house.

What types of sport and extracurricular activities are you involved in?
I participate in athletics and singing at school.

What do you hope to try with your prosthetic sports blade?
I’d like to try playing Rugby next.

What is your message to children living with a physical challenge?
A child with a disability is still a child with ability. You are not different, you are unique.