“VUT alumnus James Mayinga reflects on his journey from professional football to leadership, broadcasting and community development.”
28 July 2026 | Story by: Nontobeko Moimane | Picture: Peter Masela
4 minutes read time.
For Mr James Mahlavhana Mayinga, success has never been measured solely by trophies won or matches played. It is defined by the lives he continues to touch long after the final whistle. From a distinguished professional football career to becoming a respected sports analyst, coach, entrepreneur and community leader, the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) alumnus has built a legacy grounded in leadership, service and purpose.
A graduate of VUT’s National Diploma in Sport Management in 2002, Mr Mayinga has transformed his passion for sport into a career spanning several fields. His journey has seen him represent some of South Africa’s most recognisable football clubs, earn a Bafana Bafana cap, transition into sports broadcasting with SuperSport, qualify as a CAF C Licensed Coach and Neuro-Life Coach, and establish the James Mayinga Foundation, a non-profit organisation committed to empowering young people through sport, education and community development.
Looking back, Mr Mayinga credits VUT with giving him far more than an academic qualification.
“VUT provided me with a strong academic foundation in sports management while teaching me discipline, leadership, teamwork and critical thinking. The knowledge and practical skills I acquired have been invaluable throughout my career, whether as a professional athlete, sports broadcaster, coach or entrepreneur,” he reflects.
His football career took him to clubs including Mamelodi Sundowns, Moroka Swallows, Bidvest Wits, Black Leopards, Dynamos, Tembisa Classic, Dangerous Darkies and FC AK. However, he says his years at VUT taught him how to balance ambition with discipline.
He chose VUT because of its reputation for practical, career-oriented education and its strong sport management offering.
“It offered the perfect environment to combine my passion for football with quality education,” he says.
Beyond the lecture halls, it was the people and experiences that left a lasting impression.
“My most memorable experiences include the friendships I built, participating in student activities, engaging with lecturers who genuinely cared about our development and balancing my academic responsibilities with my football career. Those experiences shaped both my character and my resilience.”
As VUT celebrates its Diamond Jubilee, Mr Mayinga says it has been inspiring to witness the University’s continued evolution into an institution recognised for academic excellence, innovation, impactful research and strong industry partnerships.
“I am particularly proud of the University’s commitment to producing graduates who are equipped to make meaningful contributions across various sectors. The University’s growing engagement with alumni also reflects its appreciation of lifelong relationships with its graduates.”
His career reflects the importance of adaptability in a fast-changing world. Having transitioned from professional sport into media, coaching and entrepreneurship, Mr Mayinga believes universities must prepare students for careers that will continue to evolve.
He advocates stronger collaboration between universities and industry to create opportunities through internships, mentorship, entrepreneurship and innovation.
“I would like to see VUT continue strengthening partnerships with industry to provide students with greater access to internships, mentorship programmes, entrepreneurship development, sports innovation and digital technology. The University can also play a leading role in community development by encouraging students to develop solutions that create social impact while preparing them for the evolving demands of the global economy.”
Giving back has become central to Mr Mayinga’s mission. Through the James Mayinga Foundation, he is creating pathways for young people to access opportunities through sport and education, while remaining committed to supporting the next generation of VUT graduates.
“I am passionate about giving back to my alma mater. I want to mentor students, participate in alumni engagement programmes, collaborate on community and sports development initiatives and create opportunities for young people through partnerships with the James Mayinga Foundation. I believe alumni have a responsibility to inspire and support the next generation of leaders.”
For current and prospective students, Mr Mayinga offers advice drawn from his experiences on and off the field.
“Believe in yourself, remain disciplined and never stop learning. Take advantage of every opportunity to gain practical experience, build meaningful relationships and develop leadership skills. Success is not determined solely by talent, but by consistency, perseverance, integrity and a willingness to serve others. Always remember that your greatest impact comes from using your knowledge and abilities to uplift your community.”
As VUT marks six decades of Inspiring Thought and Shaping Talent, Mr Mayinga hopes the University will continue building on its legacy of excellence while nurturing future leaders equipped to transform society.
For Mr Mayinga, VUT was more than the place where he earned a qualification. It was where he developed values that continue to guide every chapter of his journey. As an accomplished sports professional and committed community leader, he stands as a testament to the enduring impact of a VUT education, one that inspires thought, shapes talent and empowers graduates to create meaningful change far beyond the classroom.