The Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport in Gqeberha was abuzz with excitement on Monday when SA's first professional wheelchair bodybuilder, Max Kulati, returned home from Slovenia where he successfully defended his title.
The 34-year-old Kulati from Kariega emerged victorious at the 2023 International Federation of Body Building and Fitness (IBFF) World Championship last week.
Kulati has not always been in a wheelchair.
In 2014, he slipped and fell at his workplace, and a few weeks after the fall, he woke up one morning and could no longer walk.
Besides the hero's welcome, Kulati was left speechless upon learning that the Chippa United Football Club would contribute R400 000 towards building him a home.
Club management said they wanted to move Kulati out of his shack in Moeggesukkel and into a home fit for an athlete with physical disabilities.
Their donation was made possible by Health MEC Nomakhosazana Meth, who told the club about Kulati's plight.
Standard Bank donated an additional R100 000 for Kulati to furnish his new home.
Wiping back tears, Kulati expressed his gratitude towards everyone who has supported him on his journey.
He was especially grateful at the prospect of moving into his new home, stating that his living circumstances were not ideal.
"I am at a loss for words. I want to thank Chippa United for the generous donation.
"It's been difficult for me.
"When it rains outside, then it rains inside my house aswell. At this very moment, there is a dam in front of my home due to the rain.
"I always believed that God would stretch out his hand and bless me, not knowing that the day would come anytime soon."
Kulati aims to uplift the younger generation in his community by sharing his love for bodybuilding.
His future plans include defending his title next year and winning the IFBB Mr Universe title in Italy.
