Patrisia Fernandes rises to the top of African Karate rankings

Kimberley’s Patrisia Fernandes has climbed to the very top of karate rankings, securing the number one spot in both South Africa and Africa.

The CBC St Patrick’s learner described the feat as “humbling and surreal,” crediting years of discipline, sacrifice, and faith for her rise.

Her success has also been recognised at school level, where she recently earned her third white honours blazer — making her the first girl in CBC Kimberley’s history to do so.

“It feels very humbling, almost unreal,” she reflected. “This didn’t happen overnight; it took years of discipline, sacrifice, and faith. For nearly three years, I was stuck at third in South Africa, no matter how much I trained or gave of myself. There were times I doubted if it would ever change, but I kept going. 

“This achievement isn’t mine alone,” she added, “it belongs to everyone who believed in me, especially in the moments when I didn’t believe in myself.”

Her recent success at the WKF Africa Cup is a key part of this rise. Competing against the continent’s best, Patrisia entered the tournament nervous but determined. “Facing athletes from all over the continent was daunting,” she admitted. “But I remembered my experience in Japan at the World Championships, going there alone, not knowing anyone, but still showing up. 

“That memory gave me courage.”

In preparation, she found strength in music, drawing inspiration from a single song she played on repeat. “I listened to Never Say Never. The words reminded me that I had already come far and couldn’t let fear hold me back. At some point, it wasn’t even about winning a medal. It became about honouring the little girl in me who once doubted herself. 

“What set me apart wasn’t just my training; it was my mindset. I wanted to prove I was stronger than the version of me who once wanted to give up.”

Obstacles overcome

The road to success was not without its obstacles. For Patrisia, the toughest challenge was not physical preparation but overcoming self-doubt. “The hardest part wasn’t physical; it was mental,” she said. “Even on the day of the competition, I found myself close to tears when things didn’t go as I hoped. What helped me was shifting my prayers. 

“Instead of asking for victory, I prayed for strength and peace of mind.”

Support from her family and coaches was crucial. “My family reminded me they were proud of me no matter the outcome. My coaches encouraged me even when I couldn’t see my own potential. Their love and belief helped me push through, and I realised it wasn’t about being perfect. It was about showing up and trusting that every challenge had prepared me for this moment.”

Now an elite black belt, Patrisia carries her title with pride and humility. “Personally, it means so much more than just a title. The path wasn’t easy, and failure has been my greatest teacher. Professionally, the black belt is a reminder that growth never ends. It’s not about being the best in the room; it’s about being better than you were yesterday. The true battles are in the mind and heart, and perseverance matters more than perfection.”

Support that mattered

When asked about her biggest supporters, Patrisia did not hesitate. “God has been the foundation of everything. In moments of weakness, His strength carried me. My mom has been my biggest supporter, standing by me through every win and loss. My dad constantly reminded me not to give up, no matter how tough it got. 

“My brother lifted my spirit with laughter when I needed it most. My grandparents were my quiet inspiration, always so proud of me. And my coaches changed everything. They saw my potential even when I felt stuck, and their belief has been proven right in this achievement.”

She also credited her mentors for shaping her journey. “Sensei Hendrick saw something in me when I didn’t see it myself, and he never gave up on me. Sensei Christien has been an inspiration; her discipline and the way she carries herself motivate me to keep striving. And my mom, who even trained with me at home, keeping me focused and on track. I’ll always be grateful for her dedication.”

Bigger plans still

Looking ahead, Patrisia has her eyes set on the world stage once again. “My dream is to compete again at the World Championships. I ranked within the top 10 last time, and I hope to climb higher, one step at a time, in world rankings. 

“Beyond that, I want to give back. I want to mentor younger athletes, share my journey, and show them that with faith, consistency, and heart, they can achieve great things too. Success isn’t about being the most talented; it’s about being willing to grow, to learn, and to stay humble. 

“For me, true success lies not only in what you achieve but also in how you inspire others along the way. That’s the legacy I hope to leave.”

Patrisia’s journey is one of resilience, faith, and inspiration. Her rise to number one in South Africa and Africa is not just a personal victory but a story of perseverance that will undoubtedly inspire future generations of karate athletes.