Sine Zungu: A powerful force in South African football

Sine Zungu, the CEO of AmaZulu Football Club, is a shining role model and inspiration for women aspiring to carve out their own paths in the world of business.

From the dusty streets of Umlazi, she has risen to lead one of South Africa's most storied football clubs, embodying ambition, kindness, and tenacity, traits she attributes to the powerful women in her life: her grandmothers, mother, and aunts.

In her interview with the Daily News, Zungu recounted her journey to the top.

She revealed that her success was deeply intertwined with the values instilled in her by the significant women of her upbringing.

"What drives me as a woman is the ideal of seeing young women truly participating equitably at all tables," she said, highlighting her commitment to contributing to a transformative future for women in business.

She attests that leading a prominent team like AmaZulu was no small feat.

Zungu emphasised the importance of responsible leadership.

"At all material times, it is upon me to ensure that there is visible impact that will put the club in a much better position than it was before."

This level of accountability is something she embraces with pride.

In an industry traditionally male dominated, Zungu argued that the female presence should no longer be viewed as an anomaly.

"Women have the capacity to influence, effect, and execute change and progression," she asserted.

Yet, she acknowledged the challenges women face in asserting their dominance.

"While I don't find it difficult to hold space, effective leadership often requires serving, which can create familiarity and resistance," Zungu reflected.

In describing the pressures of her role, she acknowledged the high stakes environment in which she operated: "If you don't feel it, please share your recipe."

With AmaZulu enduring a lengthy trophy drought in the country's highest football league (the PSL), Zungu said the club's focus was unwavering .

"We would love to see silverware in our cabinet; we are working hard towards it," she stated.

With Amazulu, she is eager to do her bit to cultivate both a respected sports brand and a community presence that extended beyond South Africa.

On the topic of local support, Zungu was optimistic about the club's future.

"Do we feel we could get more support locally? Absolutely," she confessed.

"We are putting in the work to ensure that we too get the visibility and local support, this is a journey we believe we will achieve."

Her ambition was not only to elevate AmaZulu's stature within the country but also to position it as a top sports brand on the African continent.

Balancing the drastic demands of her role with personal life is a constant struggle for Zungu.

"No part of my life is left dry and unwatered," she explained, pointing to the need for flexibility and focus at different phases of her life.\

DAILY NEWS