LIMPOPO – With a voice as powerful as her determination, 17-year-old Lwandle Khumalo from Maphokwane High School is fast becoming a musical force to be reckoned with.

After claiming first place at both the Phalaborwa Cluster and Mopani East District levels of the 2025 South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE), Khumalo is now preparing to perform at the Provincial Choral Championships in Polokwane on Saturday, June 7.

The SASCE journey began on Friday, April 25, at the Lulekani Community Hall, where he was chosen to proceed to the district competition on Sunday, May 18, where she excelled, securing first place and earning the title of Best Soprano Soloist in the Mopani East District.

She is currently preparing to compete at the provincial level, with the goal of moving on to the national stage.

“I am feeling excited and grateful at the same time. I am proud of myself and appreciate everyone who supported and helped me through this journey,” Khumalo expressed.

Khumalo said that she discovered her gift at the age of 12 while in Gr 6 at Rethabile Primary School. With the guidance of her mentor, Ditsoanelo Malapane, she began to nurture her talent.

She added that she draws her inspiration from world-renowned South African opera singer, Pretty Yende, and credits her family’s support as a key part of her growth.

In 2024, while in Gr 11, Khumalo took her first bold step with a solo soprano performance of Mein Herr Marquis, delivering a powerful rendition of the piece. Though she placed second, the experience ignited a fire within her to go further and aim higher.

Her strength was tested when she suddenly struggled with vocal difficulties, which she had never encountered previously. “It was frightening because I did not know what was happening with my voice,” she admitted.

“My dream is to reach the national stage and represent Limpopo with pride. I am hoping to get full support from the Phalaborwa community as I continue this journey,” stated Khumalo.

Her school principal, Botang Lucas Nthabukheni, proudly spoke about her dedication.

“Khumalo is a passionate and vibrant young soloist. She is the one who came to me asking to form a choral music choir last year. The choir went on to win first place at the district level and represented us provincially. Last year, she was heartbroken after placing second as a soloist, and she vowed to come back stronger. This year, she’s done just that. I have full confidence she will represent our province at the national level,” he said.