Brian Felix in action. Picture: Supplied
Cape Town - Brian Felix grew up in Lavender Hill, facing hardship in the 1970s after his family was evicted from their home in Retreat.
Despite their struggles, his parents worked tirelessly to provide for their children, showing them love and resilience, something that would become the foundation for his own journey.
As a young boy, Felix found solace in sports, using a simple katokkie (makeshift golfstick with wire) on the fields near his home.
“The ball we had went nowhere, but that’s where my love for the game began,” he smiles.
Little did he know that this passion would take him far beyond his community.
Years later, alongside his wife, Felix began outreach work in Vrygrond and later taught children in Lavender Hill how to play golf.
“Golf teaches more than just a sport,” he says. “It instills values, discipline, and purpose.”
Seven years ago, after a health scare, Felix founded Hillwood Golf Academy NPC, offering children from disadvantaged backgrounds a chance to play golf, a sport often seen as elitist.
The academy partners with local schools and has recently received support from Royal Cape Golf Club in Wynberg.
The club not only offers their grounds for training of the learners but also provides professional golfers as coaches, while Felix and his team keeps the academy running, providing meals for the kids, transport and training.
“The partnership with Royal Cape Golf Course gave children the chance to play at a prestigious location, offering exposure and opportunities they never imagined.
“The best part is watching these kids amazing transformations.
“I see kids evolve from wild and lacking confidence to focused, disciplined, and excelling academically. I see them grow and that’s the most rewarding thing.
“For me it is also a great feeling to know that our children will now also have the opportunity to one day even represent the country, it all starts at home!”
For his future plans Felix said there are big things in store.
“Our work caught international attention, leading to connections in Sweden.
“Three students will soon travel to Sweden as part of an exchange programme, marking the start of even greater opportunities. We are hoping and praying to expand on this too.”
However Felix still needs as much support and help as possible.
“We need things like golf equipment and groceries for the kids and their families.
“Every little bit helps,” Felix shares. Cafda School of Skills, said being part of the Hillwood Golf Academy at the Royal Cape Golf Course has had a remarkable impact on their learners.
“Currently, we have 10 learners enrolled in the programme, and the benefits are evident in their increased focus, discipline, and purpose-driven approach to life.
“The Hillwood Golf Academy is more than just a place to improve golfing skills; it serves as a platform for personal growth and development.
“Through their participation, our learners not only develop their abilities on the course but also gain essential life skills such as personal responsibility, time management, and goal-setting.
“These skills are translating into positive changes in their academic lives as well, helping them to approach their education with a renewed sense of commitment and purpose.”
The Western Cape Education Department said educator, Kevin Moolam, who supervises the learners during their time at the golf course, consistently provides positive feedback on their progress.
“He notes the growth in their character and work ethic, emphasising how the academy’s structure is contributing to their overall development.
“Under his guidance, the learners have shown tremendous growth, both as golfers and as individuals.”
tracy-lynn.ruiters@inl.co.za
Weekend Argus
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