Ashwin Willemse

Ashwin Willemse is one of South Africa’s rugby icons and a beacon of hope for the millions of youths struggling throughout the world. He has achieved some of the highest accolades in sports. His personal life story has been an inspiration to many. Against all odds he achieved phenomenal success as an international rugby icon. In 2003, he was voted ‘SA Player of the Year’, ‘Most Promising Player of the Year’ and ‘Players’ Player of the Year.’

In 2002 Ashwin Willemse won a Junior World Cup as part of the SA U/21 team. In 2007, after suffering from career threatening injuries, he made a huge comeback to form part of the 2007 Rugby World Cup winning squad.

After retirement from professional rugby in 2009 he joined SuperSport as a rugby commentator and analyst. His savvy technical rugby knowledge and first-hand experience as a top professional athlete add an in-depth unique quality to the show. He is also the Executive Producer of the successful Lions4Life reality show on SuperSport, which follows the Golden Lions Rugby team on and off the field.

In 2012, he launched GreenSmile Foundation with former Springbok rugby player Breyton Paulse. It is dedicated to helping educate and create better opportunities for children from socio-economic hardships. Today, he is a leader for youth and successful business entrepreneur.