Story by Mthokozisi Dube
AS Women’s Month celebrations continue, rising boxing referee Lisa Phakathi is making her mark by challenging entrenched gender stereotypes in a traditionally male-dominated sport.
While the popular adage “what boys can do, girls can do better” has encouraged women’s participation across sectors, combat sports such as boxing remain largely male-dominated, with female officials often facing resistance both inside and outside the ring.
Phakathi, however, is steadily breaking that barrier, demonstrating that authority, skill and resilience are not defined by gender.
A former boxer at Tshaka Boxing Club, she transitioned into refereeing after developing a passion for officiating. She now considers herself part of a new generation determined to redefine women’s roles in the sport.
“When I started, I was a boxer at Tshaka Boxing Club and then I developed an interest in refereeing and judging. It has not been easy as a female boxing referee in the field because sometimes when I am in the ring and try to stop them, they can be aggressive, taking advantage that I am a female, but I have developed a thick skin and a strategy where I tell myself that I am the boss. They have to listen to me. If I say box, they box, if I say stop, they should stop.”
Having officiated at several local tournaments, including a national boxing competition in Gwanda, Phakathi believes she is ready to step onto bigger platforms.
“I am quite ready for the big stage now, having officiated at a national boxing tournament in Gwanda. I have now officiated in a number of tournaments, rubbing shoulders with the best. I think I have gained enough experience and exposure to officiate in international assignments.”
Her rise mirrors that of trailblazing female referees Faith Hwata, Diana Makumbe, Sisa Maphosa, Nzuzoyethu Mlilo and Sarudzai Mandiyamba, who have all made significant strides in Zimbabwean boxing.
For Phakathi, the mission is clear, to inspire more young women to step into the ring, not only as athletes, but also as leaders and decision-makers in the sport.
