Authored by: Captain SA
Donald Ronaldinho Moreku, a proud son of Zoeknog GaPharia, a small village nestled in Mpumalanga’s Bushbuckridge, has a story that embodies resilience, passion, and a commitment to community upliftment. As the founder and CEO of BJM Academy and BJM Queens Ladies, his mission to revolutionize football development in South Africa is nothing short of inspirational. #PassionForFootball #CommunityDevelopment
The Early Beginnings
Donald’s love affair with football began at the tender age of seven. Starting as a goalkeeper due to his height, he quickly showcased his innate talent and determination. A turning point came when he scored two goals for his school, Lebadishanang Primary, in his first-ever match playing as an outfield player. This marked the start of his journey as a football prodigy, earning him the nickname “Ronaldinho” for his mesmerizing skills. #FromGoalkeeperToStar #FootballJourney

Dreaming Big: The Birth of BJM Academy and Queens
Growing up in the rural landscapes of Bushbuckridge, Donald saw firsthand the lack of opportunities for young talents. Fueled by this reality, he established BJM Academy and BJM Queens Ladies, aiming to provide a platform for boys and girls to learn, grow, and excel in football. “Sports is the true reflection of a community,” he says, emphasizing its role in reducing crime and instilling positive values. #BuildingDreams #EmpoweringYouth

A Wealth of Experience
Before launching his academy, Donald gained invaluable experience working with several football institutions, including Mamelodi Sundowns Satellite, Kempton Park West Sports Development, and Super Gauteng FC. These roles allowed him to learn from industry legends such as Teenage Dladla, Edelbert Dinha, and Innocent Chikoya, shaping his philosophy and approach to coaching. #LearningFromLegends #CoachingJourney
Mission and Vision
The mission of BJM Academy is clear: to teach boys and girls the fundamentals of football while preparing them for life beyond the pitch. The academy focuses on producing quality players who can thrive in professional setups and beyond. Donald’s vision includes seeing South Africa compete at the highest level, with players developed from a young age to dominate leagues and international tournaments. #FutureChampions #WinningWorldCups

Challenges Faced
Running an academy in a resource-scarce environment is no small feat. BJM Academy faces significant hurdles, including the lack of proper sports fields, equipment, and transportation. Despite these challenges, Donald’s unwavering determination and the community’s support have kept the dream alive. “Every part of the planet has diamonds; we just need trained eyes to see them,” he says. #OvercomingChallenges #CommunitySupport
Achievements and Impact
The academy has already produced stars like Thato Tower Mohlele, who plays in the Hollywoodbets Super League, and Tswelelo Maake, a U17 national team representative. BJM Queens is known for producing top-tier talent, with many players advancing to Sasol and Hollywoodbets leagues. The impact extends beyond the field, fostering a sense of pride and unity within the Kaalfontein community. #RisingStars #ImpactThroughSports
Future Aspirations
Donald envisions expanding the academy across South Africa and Africa, establishing eight satellite academies in various provinces. Plans are also underway to introduce a netball team, catering to the interests of boys and girls alike. By 2030, Donald dreams of seeing over 2,000 kids from his academy thriving in professional leagues worldwide. #ExpandingHorizons #AfricanDream

A Message to Aspiring Sports Enthusiasts
To those aspiring to venture into sports, Donald’s advice is profound: “Be sure this is what you love. Be committed, stay disciplined, and work tirelessly on your mental, physical, and spiritual growth.” His journey is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and a vision rooted in community upliftment. #Inspiration #CommitmentToExcellence
Conclusion
Donald Ronaldinho Moreku’s story is a shining example of how one individual’s dream can transform lives and inspire generations. Through BJM Academy and BJM Queens Ladies, he is nurturing talent, building character, and shaping a brighter future for South African football. The road ahead is challenging, but with unwavering dedication and community support, the possibilities are limitless. #DonaldRonaldinhoMoreku #BJMFamily