Siya Kolisi and Rachel Kolisi, once celebrated as one of South Africa’s most admired couples, have become an example of graceful transition in the face of personal change. The pair met years ago, married in 2016, and together built a family that includes two biological children and two adopted siblings. Their shared journey was marked not only by personal milestones but also by professional and philanthropic collaboration. The couple co-founded the Kolisi Foundation, a charitable organisation aimed at empowering communities, and consistently supported each other—both on Siya’s rugby field and through life’s challenges off it.
In October 2024, after years of building a life together, Siya and Rachel publicly announced their decision to divorce. The announcement emphasised that the decision was rooted in mutual love, respect, and understanding. Despite their separation, the couple committed to maintaining a cooperative parenting arrangement, focusing on the wellbeing and upbringing of their children. Both emphasized that their family’s unity, even in the context of divorce, remained their top priority, and they continue to support each other in navigating parenthood.
As Siya prepares in Paris ahead of the Springboks’ highly anticipated match against Ireland, Rachel has also arrived in the French capital with their children. Sharing a lighthearted Instagram post captioned, “SA ✈️ Paris,” she signalled the start of a family getaway focused on exploration and relaxation. Paris, famously known as the City of Love, offers a backdrop that is both culturally rich and soothing—a welcome contrast to the intensity of international rugby.
Siya and Rachel Kolisi Navigate Life After Divorce While Embracing Family Time in Paris
During their stay, Rachel and the children are soaking in the city’s charm, wandering along the Seine, enjoying quaint Parisian cafés, and admiring the historic architecture. Beyond sightseeing, Rachel has planned to reconnect with friends, blending moments of social engagement with her role as a mother and travel companion. The trip is a carefully curated balance of leisure and meaningful family time, allowing the children to experience new environments while strengthening the bonds that continue to unite them as a family.
Meanwhile, Siya remains nearby, focused on training and preparation for the upcoming match. The parallel nature of their activities—him immersed in professional commitments, her guiding the children through exploration and downtime—illustrates the way the Kolisis continue to navigate life after divorce. Although physically apart at times, the family remains interconnected through shared responsibilities, mutual respect, and their commitment to their children’s growth and happiness.
Observers have noted that Rachel’s approach to the Paris trip reflects a modern parenting philosophy, one that values independence and personal enrichment while maintaining a strong, supportive parental partnership. By prioritising experiences that foster curiosity, cultural awareness, and emotional connection, she provides the children with a nurturing environment despite the family’s changed dynamics. At the same time, Siya’s dedication to his sporting responsibilities demonstrates that individual ambitions and professional focus can coexist alongside attentive co-parenting.
The Kolisis’ public handling of their separation has drawn praise for its emphasis on civility, love, and collaboration. In an era where celebrity divorces often dominate headlines for the wrong reasons, Siya and Rachel’s example highlights how former partners can continue to operate as a cohesive unit in the best interests of their children. Their commitment to shared parenting, charitable work, and personal growth showcases a model of maturity and accountability, providing both fans and the public with a refreshing narrative of resilience and understanding.
For Rachel, the Paris trip represents more than leisure; it is an opportunity for reflection, reconnection, and engagement with the city’s vibrant energy. For Siya, who remains focused on peak performance for the Springboks, it is a period of preparation, discipline, and focus. The two spheres—one of professional intensity, the other of family exploration—run parallel, demonstrating that even after divorce, a sense of shared life purpose and mutual respect can endure.
Ultimately, the Kolisis continue to exemplify that family unity is not solely defined by marital status. Their approach underscores the possibility of nurturing a loving, supportive environment for children while pursuing personal growth, professional excellence, and meaningful experiences. In Paris, amid the cafés, historic landmarks, and Seine-side strolls, the Kolisi family illustrates a harmonious balance between life after separation and the enduring power of shared love, respect, and commitment to one another’s wellbeing.
Source- iHarare
