Mind over matter powers Theunissen forward

There is no strength more powerful than that of one’s mind, and Duncan Theunissen, a 19-year-old para-powerlifter, is living proof of this. Driven by a sheer will to be the best, Theunissen shared his journey from a difficult beginning, to becoming the strongest sub-para junior in South Africa this year.

The grade 11 at Muriel Brand School who lives with cerebral palsy, underwent surgery at a young age to release tight muscles in his legs and was only able to start walking at age six. “I went to a mainstream school for two years, which did not go too well. I could feel people looking at me funny and I felt isolated. Moving to Muriel Brand has done wonders for my education, which is the most important aspect of my life.”

The young lifter from Brakpan has received academic colours every year since grade 7 and is continuing to push himself for better results. This determination has transferred to his sport, with the fruits of his labour there to see.

“My favourite part of powerlifting is being able to feel my progression. I am a very competitive person, and I want to be the best at what I do. I achieved my personal best at the 2026 SASAPD nationals in Stellenbosch (98kg), and I was not satisfied. I immediately thought of the next step and how I can do better.”

Theunissen’s relentless drive forward is putting himself at the top of the radar as he is, as of the 2026 SASAPD nationals, the number one sub-para junior powerlifter in South Africa. However, his incredible potential in sport is not his only focus.

“I would love to be an athlete competing on the global stage, but my main goal is gaining a top education, and I want to receive a scholarship to study something in sport, like biokinetics or sports science.”

The young powerlifter with cerebral palsy has not allowed any physical limitation to hold him back. His motivation is unstoppable as it is sourced from within himself, and those that he holds close to his heart.

“I want my parents to be proud of who I become. They have given so much to help me achieve my dreams and I want to pay them back by showing them the success their efforts have brought to my life and the person that I am.”

Theunissen shows every day why physical limitation should not stop you from achieving your goals. The strength of his mind trumps that of any muscle and his future is bright, because it is in his hands.