Olympic silver medalist Bayanda Walaza and his mother Tholiwe share an embrace. Picture: Michael Sherman / IOL Sport
When Olympic silver medalist Bayanda Walaza was given a hero’s welcome when he returned to Curro Hazeldean High School in 2024, following his exploits at the Paris Olympics, quietly sitting at the back of the school hall, was a distinctly proud mother - Tholiwe Walaza.
The 18-year-old was ushered into the school hall during assembly under a guard of honour which featured South Africa flags raised above his head as he made his way to the stage.
Minister of education Siviwe Gwarube was in attendance, along with Tholiwe.
In an emotional ceremony with his mother at his side, Walaza was presented with the silver medal before the school sung the national anthem to cap the celebration.
