Asante Sedibeng is a lively, confident Grade R learner at Hamilton Primary School in Pretoria, with big dreams for his future.

Born with a congenital condition known as Proximal Femoral Focal Deficiency, Asante underwent a below-knee amputation on 26 August 2020 he was 2 years old at the time.

After his family reached out to Jumping Kids for help, Asante was fitted with his first walking prosthesis, only two months later. Since then, he has been constantly on the go and thriving.

This is what the inspiring young man had to say:

Q&A

What is your favourite subject at school and why?
Life skills. It is fun, I love making friends and playing with my peers. It teaches me to be independent and learn to do things on my own. I learn about social things such as helping and being kind to others, taking care of animals, exercising, and hygiene.

What would you like to pursue as a career one day?
I want to be an astronaut and go to space or a firefighter to save lives and keep people safe or a policeman so I can catch people who do bad things.

What types of sport and extracurricular activities are you involved in?
Swimming and gymnastics.

What do you hope to try next with your prosthetic equipment?
"I refuse to let my prosthetic leg limit me. I want to be free, confident and capable – running, climbing, riding and playing just like everyone else. I know I can conquer anything!"

What is your message to children living with a physical challenge?
You are a superstar, and amazing just the way you are. Your body might be differently abled, but that’s what makes you unique and most special. Keep shining, keep smiling and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it. You’re not alone – some people care about you and want to support you.