Max Kulati, a partially disabled bodybuilder from the impoverished Moeggesukkel in Kariega, has been selected to represent South Africa at the International Bodybuilding Federation World Championship in Koper, Slovenia on 4th June 2022.
“I am ecstatic. This is a total life changer. I’ve been struggling for a long time and now knows God is steering me in a new direction. I owe this life changing experience to all who believe in me, all who support me,” said the wheelchair bound Max (33) who is partially paralysed from the waist down after a failed medical procedure.
Destitute, unemployed, not earning any income whilst as a single parent he takes care of his three boys, Max realized he needs to transform his negative thoughts to be more constructive and to find pride in himself again. He then started with powerlifting a few months ago.
“Competing in this sport has instilled hope and pride in me. Now I must bid farewell to powerlifting which brought new meaning to my life, as my future lies in bodybuilding.”
The support of the community for Max to be able to attend the IBFF competitions in Mossel Bay and Gauteng touched his heart.
“Thank you to each person who contributed. It not only inspired me to give my best, but it also made it possible for me to meet professional sports people who provide me with valuable advice.”
Max’s path has crossed those of over 40 IBFF SA champion and former world champion Rochelle van der Bank and Rene Shear, both from Mossel Bay. Rochelle drove all the way from Mossel Bay to fetch Max to compete in the IBFF Southern Cape Spring Classic where he won in his category. Rene made it possible for Max to receive a super light state-of-art wheelchair as one of his prizes after he came second in the IBFF World Cup in Gauteng.
He refers to this wheelchair as his Ferrari. “It is parked at home. Where I live in Moeggesukkel the roads are non-existent and there is shattered glass everywhere. I cannot use my Ferrari on those roads, I will use it only when I have to go to competitions.”
The African Pioneer Foundation sponsored Max to attend the competitions. “I wish to thank the CEO Stephen Dondolo as well as Thobeka Pasiya, CSI manager at African Pioneer Foundation for their support.
“Thank you also to all at the Metro Gym. You surprised me by raising funds to help me participate. Thank you also to China the vegetable seller. He said, ‘Bra, you are an inspiration to me. I don’t have money, but here, take this fresh fruit for your journey.’ Man … that meant a lot to me.”
Max is being trained by fellow bodybuilder Mongezi Mata from Addo.
“The next six months will be crucial. I need the right nutrients and supplements to transform my body in preparation for Slovenia. My competitors have seen my body, but I must surprise them with a new look,” said Max.
Max also wishes to thank Arnie Johannes and Lamile Faltein for their huge role in his life, as well as Conraad Bester from CB Automotive and Ashley van der Mescht for their much-valued support.
