Banyana Banyana Head Coach, Desiree Ellis’ illustrious career has been marked by groundbreaking achievements, including leading the national team to historic victories and elevating women’s football on the global stage. Here, we share some fun facts about her.
Glamour: What’s one book you’ve read that had a significant impact on you, and why?
Desiree Ellis: I enjoy reading spiritual books, romance novels and autobiographies from sports personalities. My all time favourites would be The Purpose Driven Life and Sir Alex Ferguson’s autobiography. I am a diehard Manchester United Fan, and his book was an in-depth view from one of the greatest team managers of all time. Lately, I also enjoy audio books while travelling.
Glamour: Do you have a favourite hobby or activity that you enjoy doing in your free time?
Desiree Ellis: What free time, lol? I am not a MasterChef cook but I enjoy cooking. Watching cooking reels then trying to recreate the dish in the kitchen. Anything by the late Fatima Sydow is always a favourite. I always improvise with the recipe though and share pictures with family and friends.
Glamour: What’s your go-to comfort food or favourite dish to cook at home?
Desiree Ellis: It would have to be samp and beans – living so far from my family, I do miss the old style home cooked meals. When I visit home, my mom will always cook my favourites and freeze it for me to take back.
Glamour: Is there a particular movie or TV show that you can watch over and over again without getting tired of it?
Desiree Ellis: The local soapie, Suidooster would be my favourite. It is so real and down to earth, like watching relatives on-screen. The storyline is also very relatable for people living in Cape Town. I watch on catch up as I don’t always have time to sit down when it airs then I call my friends and family to discuss the episodes, much like gossiping about family, lol.
Glamour: Who are some of your role models or people you admire outside of the sports world?
Desiree Ellis: Nelson Mandela – he is and will always be an inspiration for our country and the human race in general.
Glamour: What’s a skill or talent you wish you had that’s completely unrelated to football?
Desiree Ellis: Singing and dancing even though there is zero talent there.
Glamour: Do you have any favourite music or artists that you listen to to get pumped up or relax?
Desiree Ellis: I love old school, gospel, kwaito / amapiano. I listen to all kinds of music and have playlist to song along when traveling
Glamour: What’s a memorable experience or achievement from your life that you’re especially proud of, aside from your coaching career?
Desiree Ellis: I don’t do anything for rewards or awards, but being recognised in your home-town and country would have to be the cherry on top. The Mayor Of Cape Town’s Honour Roll, The Order of Ikhamanga in Gold from the President, and the Honorary Doctorate from CPUT .
Glamour: Who are the women on your radar?
Desiree Ellis: Ilhaam Groenewwald and Nomsa Mahlangu who are involved in university sport, Fran Hilton-Smith, a pioneer of women’s football on the continent and Ntambi Ravele who always advocates for women.
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