From the moment Malakai Leibrandt was born with a clubfoot, his life became a testament to resilience, faith, and triumph.

What began as an unexpected diagnosis has blossomed into a story of hope and inspiration. Now, at just nine years old, Malakai is defined not by the challenges of his early years but by his remarkable achievements, excelling in sport and proving that determination and belief can overcome any obstacle.

Malakai’s journey began one week after his birth on 30 September 2016, when he was diagnosed with congenital clubfoot – a condition where his left foot was twisted inward.

For Somerset West parents Stacey and Peter-John, the diagnosis was overwhelming, but their commitment to giving their son the best possible start in life laid the foundation for his inspiring journey.

Previously featured in DistrictMail & Helderberg Gazette in 2017, Malakai’s story highlighted the challenges he faced as a baby, including weekly Ponseti casting, a tenotomy to release his Achilles tendon, and the prolonged use of a boots-and-bar brace. Regular hospital visits, the discomfort of the casting process and wearing the brace for 23 hours a day were among the biggest challenges. “As parents, we followed every step recommended by his medical team. It wasn’t always easy, but we knew it was necessary to give Malakai the best chance,” Stacey explains.

Despite these hurdles, Malakai’s lively spirit and his family’s unwavering support carried him through. “My faith carried me,” Stacey shares. “Although I didn’t know what the outcome would be, I believed God had a purpose for Malakai’s life. His name means ‘messenger of God,’ and from the day he was born, I felt that his life would carry a message. Looking back, I can say God was faithful through every stage of the journey.”

As the world marked World Clubfoot Day on 3 June, Malakai’s journey stands as a powerful reminder of the importance of early intervention, support and awareness. Today he continues to inspire, excelling in sport and showing that no challenge is insurmountable when met with faith, perseverance and love.

His determination

Malakai has already built an impressive list of achievements across multiple sports. In rugby, he was named Most Promising Player in 2023 (under-7) and again in 2025 (under-9). His talent in athletics has shone through, with first-place finishes in sprint events from under-7 to under-10, earning him the Most Points for Interhouse Athletics twice. He also won a silver medal at inter-schools athletics.

In hockey, Malakai was recognised as the Most Promising Player for under-8, while in cricket, he was awarded Most Promising All-Rounder for under-8. Most recently, he tried long jump and javelin for the first time as an under-10 and achieved first place in both events.

“While we’re incredibly proud of these achievements, what makes us even prouder is his determination, resilience, and genuine love for sport,” Stacey says.

Steps has played a pivotal role in Malakai’s life. The local organisation’s free treatment programme gave him access to the best care from the beginning.

“Their support gave us hope during a time filled with uncertainty,” Stacey reflects. “Because of that support, Malakai is now able to enjoy every sport he loves without limitations. Steps truly changed the course of his life.”

Founded in 2005 by Karen Mara Moss after her own son’s successful treatment for clubfoot, Steps is dedicated to ensuring that every child born with clubfoot can walk without disability. At least 2 000 children are born with clubfoot in South Africa every year, and Steps works tirelessly to prevent disability through early intervention and effective treatment.

Non-invasive treatment

The organisation promotes the Ponseti Method, a non-invasive treatment that includes serial casting, tenotomy (if needed), and bracing, to help children gain mobility and avoid unnecessary surgery. Steps has trained over 1 600 health professionals, partnered with 38 state clinics and provided low-cost braces to families in need.

The Leibrandts hope Malakai’s story inspires other families facing a clubfoot diagnosis.

“A clubfoot diagnosis is not the end of the story,” Stacey says. “With early treatment, perseverance, faith and the right support, children can achieve things beyond what anyone imagined.

“Our extended family has been amazing. Everyone buys into his passion for sport, celebrates his achievements, and encourages him every step of the way. He’s extremely competitive, which sometimes keeps me on my toes! But seeing everyone rally behind him has been a great blessing.”

Looking ahead, Malakai already has big dreams. He hopes to continue growing in rugby and athletics while enjoying all the sports he loves. “My biggest hope is that he continues to work hard, stays humble and never loses his love for sport,” Stacey says. “If he can also inspire other children born with clubfoot along the way, that would be a wonderful blessing.”

For now, Malakai dreams of representing his school and, one day, playing sport at a provincial level. But his focus remains on improving every season, trying new events and challenging himself to become a better athlete.