SPOTLIGHT STORY

Words Susie Williams. Photos supplied.

In the coastal town of Victor Harbor, professional chef Fred Zziwa dedicates himself to boxing beyond his daily culinary pursuits. Originally from Uganda, Fred has encountered numerous challenges on his journey to represent his adopted homeland in the sport.

Despite facing obstacles, including navigating through a series of temporary visas since his teenage years, Fred's dedication to boxing has been unwavering. In 2023, his perseverance and athletic accomplishments were recognised, leading to the granting of a permanent visa.

With an impressive array of achievements and trophies gained on the Novice boxing circuit, Fred has already earned admiration by demonstrating his exceptional dedication and talent. Transitioning to the professional circuit by the end of 2023, Fred's journey continues to inspire. The Fleurieu community stands united in support, wishing him every success in the professional boxing arena. Go Fred, we're all behind you!

Q1. Please share some insight into your childhood.

I was born in Uganda and came to Australia when I was 15 years old. I went to Mount Compass Area School and it was the best school I’ve ever attended. My favourite memories from childhood include being able to climb fruit trees and playing soccer with my friends after school and on weekends.

Q2. What were your first impressions arriving in Australia to live?

I was 15 years old when I came to Australia and my first impression was the taller buildings in the city were pretty much the same as I had seen in the movies. Australia was a totally different environment from a lot of other countries I had been to. When I walked around the streets, they looked like ghost towns as they were so quiet and the houses looked like nobody lived there, but they looked so nice and clean. This was so different compared to my home country where the streets are filled with kids playing.

Q3. As a young lad where was your favourite hangout place and what are your favourite memories of those early days?

The beach and the Bluff were definitely a couple of my favourite hangout places. One fond memory I have from my early days here is visiting my grandparents’ orchard and eating an abundance of cherries and apples, as well as riding their quad bikes.

Q4. Congratulations, you have made a name for yourself in the boxing world. What got you hooked on boxing? Who's your inspiration?

I made a name for myself in boxing by going all in 100 per cent and becoming obsessed with the sport. The beauty of boxing is what got me hooked, the tactics, the complexities of the sport, the discipline and sacrifice required to succeed – you don’t play boxing. I would say Manny Pacquiao is my greatest inspiration in boxing.

Q5. Describe a great day in the ring. 

When everything me and my coach have been working on comes together in spectacular fashion and we showcase all the hard work that goes on in the gym. It is a feeling of pride that is hard to describe.

Q6. Has boxing always been your sport of choice?

Soccer was my sport of choice initially, but once I found boxing there was no going back.

Q7. What was your most recent competition? How did you go and what's next on the timetable?

SA Fight Night was my most recent competition. It was a very successful event in which I got a second-round knockout! What’s next is a fight night in June in Mount Gambier, followed by the Australian Title hopefully later in the year.

Q8. What is your 'day job'? 

Currently I’m working as a chef part time.

Q9. What does Fred's rest day look like?

My downtime activities include watching movies, going on walks, and a lot of naps to rest my body from all the training.

Q10. What's your future aspirations for your boxing career?

My ultimate goal is to become a world champion.

Q11. As an adult, what is it that you love about living on the Fleurieu?

I love the peaceful environment, the ocean view, the fresh coastal air and the people.