Phelelani Lord Of The Rings

Circus performer Phelelani Ndakroka has captured the hearts of audiences around the globe. The dynamic acrobat shares his inspiring journey.

- Jaye-Dee Jansen

Phelelani Ndakroka, a performer in the Zip Zap Circus, has mesmerised audiences around the world, leaving them in awe of his acrobatic skills and precision.

In April, he performed in Switzerland for Roger Federer and Andy Murray before going on to put on a show for the Afro-pop duo, Mafikizolo, in June.

The Zip Zap Circus holds a special place in Phelelani’s heart. It’s where he was taught that he, too, can dare to dream. The young performer was introduced to the circus in 2010 while living at a shelter in Salt River.

After being born to a single mother, he had spent many years living on the streets of Cape Town.

“I grew up with a life that no kid would want to live, it was difficult having to choose between right and wrong. People need to be really tough for that life because living on the street for 15 years is not easy. You need to be strong and patient. You have to figure out what you want and pray for it,” Phelelani told Cape Talk’s Pippa Hudson in a recent interview.

A FRESH START