Rise by Siya Kolisi

Rise by Siya Kolisi is an inspiring autobiography that chronicles the extraordinary life of South Africa’s first black rugby captain, from his humble beginnings to leading the Springboks to victory in the 2019 Rugby World Cup. Kolisi’s story is not just about sports; it is a deeply personal account of overcoming poverty, hardship, and racial barriers in post-apartheid South Africa to become a symbol of hope and unity for a divided nation.

Kolisi was born in 1991 in the impoverished township of Zwide, near Port Elizabeth. His early life was marked by extreme poverty, growing up in a household where basic necessities like food were often scarce. Raised by his grandmother, Kolisi’s childhood was filled with adversity—losing his mother at a young age, witnessing violence, and dealing with the daily struggles that came with life in the township. Despite these hardships, rugby became his escape and his passion.

The book details how Kolisi’s talent on the rugby field was noticed when he received a scholarship to attend Grey Junior, one of South Africa’s most prestigious schools. This opportunity changed the trajectory of his life. However, Kolisi writes candidly about the challenges of adapting to this new world—feeling out of place in a predominantly white, wealthy environment, while still carrying the weight of the struggles his family and community continued to face.

Throughout Rise, Kolisi delves into his personal battles off the field, including dealing with the pressure of expectation, the responsibility of leadership, and his own journey toward self-acceptance and faith. He speaks honestly about the difficulties of balancing his career and family life, as well as the challenges of confronting his own vulnerabilities, including struggles with alcoholism and depression.

One of the most powerful aspects of Rise is Kolisi’s account of becoming the first black captain of the Springboks, a position that holds deep historical and symbolic significance in a country still grappling with the legacy of apartheid. His captaincy of the team that won the 2019 Rugby World Cup became a moment of national pride and unity, symbolizing the power of sport to bridge divides.

Rise is more than just a sports memoir; it is a powerful narrative of resilience, leadership, and transformation. Through his story, Kolisi encourages readers to rise above their circumstances, embrace their identity, and lead with humility and courage, no matter the odds stacked against them.