MAN becomes the heartbeat of Kaizer Chiefs supporters.
Papa Wawa, whose real name is Vennetious Motswi, has become the face of Chiefs fandom.
The 29-year-old from Tzaneen in Limpopo is known as the youngest "The People's Chairman" as he commands a following most supporters can only dream of.
Speaking exclusively to Daily Sun, he said his journey has always been about family and destiny.
"I can't remember when I started supporting Kaizer Chiefs. I grew up in a family where they supported Chiefs. My late mum was a Kaizer Chiefs supporter. My great-grandfather was a Kaizer Chiefs supporter. I was born into it," he said.
The name Papa Wawa now carries him into stadiums and onto social media screens was inspired by his firstborn daughter.
"I'm blessed with two daughters, my firstborn being Warona, shortened as Wawa. So, I am called Papa Wawa. That's where the name originates," he said.
Even as a schoolboy, he showed signs of the leadership that now defines him.
"I remember when I was still at school, there was this magazine of Kaizer Chiefs called Amakhosi SupportersMagazine. I used to write for the fan column, but my letters would never be published. My English teacher encouraged me. I believe the timing of God is never late, things fall into place when they are meant to," he said.
Today, Papa Wawa is more than just a fan. He is the youngest democratically elected chairman of Kaizer Chiefs supporters of Atteridgeville branch in Tshwane, in the club's history.
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"We have people from countries such as Namibia and Botswana who wish to join under my leadership. That's when people started saying, you are not just a chairman of an Atteridgeville branch, but a chairman of everyone who is a Kaizer Chiefs supporter," he said.
The leadership streak is nothing new to him.
"From grade 3 to grade 12, I was a class rep. I think that really contributed to what is happening today," he said.
He said his loyalty to his team is unshakable.
"No, it's impossible for me to change. There are people who are able to jump from one team to another. But this club has made me who I am for so many years," he said.
He offered gratitude to those who have lifted him into the spotlight.
"I want to thank all the people who support me wherever I go, and for the work I do. Without them, I am nothing. I appreciate them all," he said.
