The Durban University of Technology (DUT) School Engagement Project, in collaboration with the Advancement and Alumni Relations unit, recently hosted the 2025 Talent Show at Sastri College. The event brought together DUT staff, students, teachers, parents, and learners from partner schools: Sastri College, Dr JL Dube High School, Bechet High School, Overport Secondary School, Hunt Road Secondary School, and Durban Girls’ Secondary School.

DUT School Engagement Project is designed to build leadership and innovation skills among learners, with DUT students serving as mentors. The project also provides academic support and career guidance, helping schools prepare learners for their future studies and careers.

Opening the event, Project Manager Bérénice de La Croix expressed her enthusiasm. “It is wonderful to see the hall filled with so many smiling, excited faces. Today is about building community and celebrating the incredible talents of our youth. We want every learner to feel supported as they courageously take to the stage,” she said.

Mr. Zwakele Ngubane, Director of the Advancement and Alumni Relations Unit, highlighted the broader vision of the programme. “The School Engagement Project is not only about academics but about developing the whole learner. We have had a sports tournament, and today, we celebrate creativity. This platform gives our young people an opportunity to showcase their gifts and to be reminded that their talents are meant to uplift communities,” said Ngubane.

The keynote address was delivered by renowned artist Thobekile Magubane, known as Ntomb’Yelanga, who also served as a guest judge. She encouraged learners to embrace their heritage while using their creativity to reimagine the future. “Winning is just a formality. The true victory lies in preparing, showing up, and sharing your art. Every one of you is already a winner. Remember, as artists, you are here to reflect society back to itself and tell its stories in new ways,” Magubane explained.

Last year’s winner, Awande Phakathi, returned to inspire contestants. “Do not see today as just a competition but as a launchpad. Even if you do not take home the prize, someone will remember how you made them feel. That is the true power of art,” he said.

More than 20 performances, ranging from singing and dancing to performance poetry, lit up the stage. Learners were visibly excited and gave their all, cheered on by their peers, parents, and teachers. Although only five acts could walk away with prizes, the atmosphere was filled with joy, pride, and encouragement.

The top five winners shared their thoughts after the announcement:

First Place: Possible Sikhosana a Grade 12 learners from Sastri College beamed with pride. “Winning first place means so much to me. I worked very hard to prepare for this performance, but standing on stage and seeing the audience enjoying what I was doing made it all worth it. This experience has given me so much confidence, and I feel encouraged to keep pursuing my passion.”

Second Place: Youth Freedom Fighter Group from Sastri College, made up of Zama Ndaba, Awande Mhlanga, Nolwazi Mashoba, Luthando Maseko, Mbalenhle Cele, and Abongile Kunene, shared their excitement as a team. “We are so proud of what we achieved together. Performing as a group allowed us to combine our different strengths, and we are happy that our message reached the audience. Winning second place shows that teamwork really pays off.”

Third Place: Lynette Dladla from Hunt Road Secondary could hardly hide her joy. “I am over the moon. This was my first time performing on such a big stage, and I was so nervous at first. But once I started, I felt free, and the applause gave me courage. To get third place is a dream come true.”

Fourth Place: Thami Mbatha and Shinga Mbatha from Bechet High expressed gratitude for the opportunity. “Even though we did not get the top spot, we are very proud of our performance. Sharing the stage together as siblings was special, and the support from the crowd gave us so much energy. We will keep working on our craft and come back even stronger.”

Fifth Place: Ozonyazi Group from Dr JL Dube High reflected on their achievement. “Being in the top five is such an honour. For us, it was never just about winning but about sharing our creativity with others. We are so happy that the judges and the audience connected with our performance.”

Sastri College teacher Ishtha Maharaj expressed her deep pride in her learners’ performances and the overall impact of the event. “Seeing our learners step on stage with such confidence was an emotional moment for us as teachers. Many of them are usually quiet in class, but today, they shone like stars. For Sastri College to take two of the top positions is an honour, but beyond the prizes they got, I am proud of the growth I witnessed in all the learners. Events like this remind us that education is not just about textbooks and exams, it is also about nurturing creativity, courage, and self-expression,” she explained.

In her vote of thanks, Project Manager Bérénice de La Croix closed the event with heartfelt appreciation. “I want to thank every learner who performed today, you were brave, inspiring, and truly remarkable. To our parents and teachers, thank you for always supporting the learners and encouraging them to reach for their dreams. Today has shown that when we come together as a community, we can create magic. This talent show is not the end but the beginning of greater opportunities for all of you,” she said.

The 2025 Talent Show proved to be more than just a display of artistic skills, it was a celebration of creativity, resilience, and community spirit. Learners left the hall inspired, knowing their talents had been recognised and appreciated. DUT once again highlighted the impact of mentorship and the importance of giving young people platforms to shine.

Pictured: Learners performing at the Talent Show.

Photographer: S’bonelo Dlamini

Sinamile Sithole