It was a weekend of triumph and transformation for South African women’s boxing as three dynamic fighters from the McAusland Management stable delivered powerful performances that underscored the unstoppable rise of women in the sport.
Under the watchful eye of seasoned boxing manager Colleen McAusland, the trio of Bernice “The Badger” Ferreira, Monica Mkandla and rising amateur star Kaitlyn Southon have proven that passion, grit and purpose are redefining the face of boxing in South Africa.
Bernice “The Badger” Ferreira capped off the weekend with a dominant performance, claiming the South African title and extending her undefeated record to nine wins and no losses. Ferreira’s relentless pace and precision left her opponent unable to find range or rhythm. Her victory cemented her reputation as one of the country’s most formidable fighters and, more importantly, as an emblem of excellence for women in sport.
“Bernice represents what it means to fight with purpose,” says Colleen McAusland. “Her discipline, her pressure and her power make her not just a champion in the ring but a role model for every young woman who dreams of stepping through those ropes.”
In another commanding performance, Monica Mkandla extended her unbeaten streak to eight wins after a unanimous decision victory in a six round international bout. Her unmatched speed and stamina reaffirmed her place among South Africa’s elite female fighters. “Monica’s style is electric,” McAusland adds. “She is the kind of athlete who pushes boundaries and that energy is contagious in the gym.”
Rounding out the trio’s success was Kaitlyn Southon, who made a stunning amateur debut with a unanimous decision win, her opponent being counted down twice. Behind the gloves lies an extraordinary story of resilience, a young woman who has overcome unimaginable challenges and found purpose and power through boxing.
Having been supported and mentored by Simangele Smash Hadebe, one of South Africa’s top professional boxers, Kaitlyn has found a big sister both in and out of the gym. Hadebe’s guidance reflects the culture McAusland has built, one grounded in mentorship, solidarity and empowerment.
“This is about more than sport,” McAusland says. “It is about giving women the chance to fight, not just in the ring but for their dreams, their healing and their futures.”
Across the globe, women’s boxing is experiencing a renaissance, and South Africa is no exception. From Ferreira’s title win to Mkandla’s international streak and Southon’s inspiring debut, the McAusland team’s success embodies a movement that is breaking stereotypes and opening doors.
As the world celebrates the growing visibility of women in sport, these athletes are showing that the ring is not a man’s world, it is a stage where courage, resilience and heart amongst women – can also define greatness.
Founded by Colleen McAusland, McAusland Management represents some of South Africa’s leading female fighters and is deeply committed to empowering women through sport. With an ethos of mentorship and community, the stable nurtures athletes to excel both in competition and in character, building champions who inspire inside and outside the ring.
Image: Nick Lourens Photography
