Mary Liesse Zulu arrived at Blessed Gérard’s Children’s Home on the day she was born, 6 December 2002, in poor health. There she found people who cared for her, encouraged her and recognised her abilities.
Mary grew up alongside the other children as part of a family. She enjoyed sport and playing with her friends. Children’s Home manager Hayne Clark noticed her talent and arranged a training opportunity with the Sharks under-16 girls’ team. Rugby became her passion.
Mary also did well at school. After graduating in 2020, she received a top achievers award for children in alternative care and a full scholarship to the University of KwaZulu-Natal. She studied sports science. By 2023, she was representing South Africa in the women’s national rugby team.
When Mary later visited the Children’s Home, she spoke gratefully about the steady support she had received and the close bonds with the other children. She still regards the home as her family. Her story shows what care, encouragement and access to education can make possible.
Based on a report by Maresi Rehder, Newsletter No. 43/44 (2025), pp. 19–22. Read the newsletter (PDF)