The Durban University of Technology (DUT) School Engagement Project in collaboration with the Advancement and Alumni Relations unit recently hosted an exciting 2024 Talent Show at Sastri College.

The Talent Show was attended by DUT staff and students as well as teachers, parents and learners from neighboring schools. The schools present at the show were: Sastri College, Bechet High School, Overport Secondary School, Sparks Estate Secondary School, Hunt Road Secondary School, Centenary Secondary School and Durban Girls Secondary School.

The DUT School Engagement Project was launched in 2018. This project is about developing the skills of innovation and leadership using DUT students as mentors to high school learners. This project also provides academic support and career guidance to the partner schools.

In her welcome, Bérénice de La Croix, DUT School Engagement Project Manager, greeted and appreciated all the guests and participants. She shared her excitement and how she was looking forward to enjoying the performances, having a good time and experiencing some of the best talent in South Africa.

The Director of the Advancement and Alumni Relations unit at DUT, Mr Zwakele Ngubane shared the purpose of the day which was to give a platform to young people to show the community their talents. “We are hoping that some of the performers we see here will go on to do amazing things in terms of creative arts,” said Ngubane.

The keynote speaker, Dr Mzwandile Khumalo, DUT Student Governance and Development Coordinator, shared how his talent played a huge role in his journey because of all he has been able to achieve through his love for music.

“You don’t have to always follow the traditional way of getting where you want to be…while pursuing what you have always wanted, you can use your talent and let it shape you,” he said.

The dedication and passion of the performers was evident in their performances on the day. The event had singers, dancers, indigenous groups, and rap artists. The participants had a great time showcasing their talent.
Seven schools came together to showcase their learners’ exceptional talents in the eagerly awaited Talent Show. Awande Phakathi and Luthando Luthuli (The Fame), both from Bechet High School, wowed the judges with their impressive performances. Sahil, known as Mozart in the Making, showed off his amazing music skills for Sastri College. The TS Twins from Hunt Road Secondary School also impressed everyone with their unique dance routine. The Inspirational from Sastri College moved the audience with a raw and accomplished performance.

Niroshnee Govender, Departmental Head and DUT School Engagement Project Coordinator at Overport Secondary, proudly shared that the school has an amazing longstanding partnership with the Durban University of Technology (DUT). Through this partnership, Overport Secondary has been offered numerous opportunities for their learners via the School Engagement Project, providing them with valuable experiences and resources that enhance their academic journey and prepare them for future success.

“The motivation for learners to participate in the Talent Show was not just about winning or losing, but about the joy and sense of achievement that came from trying their best. The motivation came from seeing the happiness and enthusiasm on the learners’ faces as they did their best, regardless of the outcome,” said Govender.

Richard Mthethwa from Bechet High School expressed his heartfelt gratitude to DUT for providing a platform for their children to shine. He believes that events like the Talent Show are breeding grounds for future stars. Mthethwa was overjoyed with the outcome, not only because of the impressive performances by the learners but also owing to the valuable opportunity for social cohesion that it provided.

Awande Phakathi (15), a Grade 10 learner from Bechet High School, shared his experience as the first prize winner of the 2024 Talent Show. He mentioned that he was astonished by the incredible talents of the young singers and guitarists, which made him realise that he was not the only skilled guitarist as he had assumed.

“I had an amazing time at the Talent Show and feel grateful to have had the chance to perform. I am looking forward to future collaborations with other guitarists and continuing to share my love of music with others,” added Phakathi.

A Grade 10 learner from Bechet High School, Luthando Luthuli (17), showcased his talent in the traditional Zulu music genre of ‘Isicathamiya’ at the DUT Talent Show. Luthuli’s journey with ‘Isicathamiya’ began at the Mayville Club, where he first discovered his passion for this traditional music. He then shared his enthusiasm with his fellow learners at Bechet High School.

The majority of the participants and audience shared how they are looking forward with excitement to attending next year’s Talent Show.

The DUT School Engagement Project sincerely appreciates their partners and funders that made this event possible: Victor Daitz Foundation, IQRAA Trust, Albert Wessels Trust and Jazzy Soul.

Pictured: DUT 2024 Talent Show winners together with the distinguished guests at the event.

Phiwayinkosi Sibiya/Patience Makhaye