And Nokwe says he wants to build on his successes in 2008 by becoming a regular face in the Springbok setup.
The 27-year-old was first introduced to the national side when he was a passenger in the Springboks squad for the year-end tour two years ago - and with 2009 a Lions season, he might have timed his rise to the top perfectly.
He made his debut against Argentina this year and finished 2008 with three international caps and five tries. He became the first Springbok to score four tries against Australia in the final Tri-Nations clash at Ellis Park with a performance which put his firmly in the frame for further Test selections.
"I believe that if you work hard, anything is possible," he said
"So I knew there was a chance I could make the national squad. I am very excited about getting the opportunity this year," he said.
Nowke says he wants to perform for the Cheetahs, and added: "The other main goal I have set is to feature regularly in the Springbok team rather than being drafted in and then dropped. I always want to be there.
"Peter [de Villiers], Dick [Muir] and Gary [Gold] - the Springbok coaches - are great coaches," said Nokwe.
"They have really helped a lot by boosting my confidence and enabling me to develop as a player.
"Their influence was evident when I returned to the Cheetahs Currie Cup team after the Tri- Nations. I realised immediately that certain aspects of my game were different."
