Rachel Kolisi
- Date of birth: June 2, 1990
- Place of birth: Makhanda (formerly Grahamstown), South Africa (also cited as Mafikeng, and raised in Grahamstown)
- Nationality: South African
- Main activity: Co-founder and CEO of the Kolisi Foundation (until recently), businesswoman, keynote speaker, social media influencer, and former professional event manager and marketing executive. She is also a part-time student.
Rachel Kolisi, born Rachel Smith, is a prominent South African public figure known for her philanthropic work, social media presence, and family commitment. She grew up in Makhanda (Grahamstown) and has become an influential voice in South Africa, advocating for various social causes. She co-founded the Kolisi Foundation, which focuses on addressing food security, gender-based violence, and education and sport.
Career
Rachel Kolisi started her career in event management and marketing. She co-founded the Kolisi Foundation in 2020 (soon after the Covid-19 pandemic hit South Africa), where she served as CEO until recently. Her work with the foundation has been instrumental in addressing social issues such as food insecurity, gender-based violence, and educational disparities. She has leveraged her platform as a social media influencer and public speaker to raise awareness about critical issues. She continues to focus on her business ventures, personal growth, and has been featured on magazine covers.
Children
Rachel Kolisi has two biological children with Siya Kolisi: a son, Nicholas Siyamthanda, and a daughter, Keziah. She and Siya also took in Siya's two younger half-siblings, Liyema and Liphelo, after their mother's passing.
Family
Rachel Kolisi's parents are not mentioned in the provided context. She is married to Luthando Bolowana as of March 2025, with traditional and formal ceremonies. She was previously married to Springbok captain Siya Kolisi, with whom she has two children, Nicholas and Keziah. She also has a brother, Joel Smith.
Dating history
Rachel Kolisi was married to Siya Kolisi, whom she met in 2012 in Stellenbosch. They became official in 2013, got engaged in 2016, and married later that year. They announced their divorce in October 2024. She married Luthando Bolowana in March 2025.
Awards
Sport Lifetime Community Award at the Sport Industry Awards (2024)
