Rachel Kolisi Opens Up About Financial Struggles During Marriage To Siya

For many South Africans, Rachel Kolisi and Springbok captain Siya Kolisi once represented one of the country’s most admired power couples. But behind the polished public image, Rachel says there were moments during their marriage that were far more complicated than most people realised.

In a recent interview on 947 with radio host Anele Mdoda, the philanthropist and author spoke candidly about her life, motherhood and the challenges she faced while building a family with the Springbok captain. One particular reflection from the conversation has drawn significant attention online.

Rachel revealed that at one point during her marriage she had to ask for money for basic personal items after stepping away from her career to focus on raising their growing household.

The Difficult Decision To Leave Work

Rachel explained that leaving her job was one of the most emotionally difficult choices she had ever made.

Giving up her career meant losing the financial independence she had valued from a young age.

She described a moment that stood out to her during that period.

Because she was no longer earning her own income, she sometimes had to ask for money for everyday necessities such as toiletries.

The experience left a lasting impression on her, especially because independence had always been a central part of her identity.

Independence Has Always Defined Her

Rachel made it clear during the interview that financial independence has always been important to her.

From an early age she looked for ways to earn her own money. She recalled selling popcorn at school when she was just 11 years old, something she believes shaped her determination to always stand on her own two feet.

That early entrepreneurial streak meant stepping away from work later in life felt like losing a part of herself.

The experience, she said, reinforced how much she values having control over her own financial future.

Raising A Family While Siya Was On Tour

Rachel also reflected on how overwhelming life became during her early twenties.

At 24, she had just welcomed her son Nicholas, who was born prematurely and often needed medical care. Around the same time, Siya’s younger siblings, Liyema and Liphelo, came to live with the couple after the death of their mother. The pair later legally adopted them.

With Siya frequently travelling for rugby tours that could last months at a time, much of the responsibility at home fell on Rachel.

She was juggling life with a newborn, supporting two grieving children and trying to maintain a full time job.

Her workplace situation eventually became unsustainable when her employer did not recognise Liyema and Liphelo as her dependants. This meant she could not take leave to care for them when they were ill.

Faced with growing pressure at home, Rachel eventually decided to resign from her job.

Life After The Separation

Rachel and Siya Kolisi announced their separation in October 2024 after eight years of marriage, surprising many fans who had followed their relationship closely over the years.

During the interview, Rachel said she is now comfortable with where she is in life.

She explained that she does not feel pressured to rush into another relationship and has found peace focusing on herself and her children.

For Rachel, moving forward does not necessarily mean finding a new partner. Instead, she sees this phase of her life as an opportunity to rebuild and grow independently.

Why She Still Uses The Kolisi Surname

Another topic Rachel addressed was her decision to keep the Kolisi surname after the separation.

According to her, the choice was largely practical.

Because her children share the Kolisi surname, travelling internationally could become complicated if her name were different. She said she has already encountered situations where people questioned whether the children were actually hers.

Keeping the surname helps avoid unnecessary complications when travelling or handling documentation.

Telling Her Story Through “Falling Forward”

Rachel’s reflections come as she tours South Africa with screenings of her documentary Falling Forward.

The project explores her life journey, including the challenges she has faced and the lessons she has learned along the way.

Each screening is followed by a live question and answer session where audiences can engage with her directly about the experiences explored in the film.

For Rachel, the documentary tour represents more than just storytelling. It is an opportunity to share her truth, reflect on the resilience that shaped her path and continue building a future on her own terms.

{Source:IOL}

Follow Joburg ETC on Facebook, Twitter , TikTok and Instagram

For more News in Johannesburg, visit joburgetc.com