Mandeni-born teacher and creative powerhouse Thandiwe Mathaba (27) is making waves in both the classroom and the national creative scene.

On November 29, Mathaba received an honorary award for Best MC at the South African Youth Awards, held at Durban’s Playhouse, in recognition of her contributions to youth development and the arts.

Her journey with the awards began in 2017, when a friend encouraged her to enter the presenter search. She won and has gone on to host the national ceremony for seven consecutive years.

“These awards give young people across South Africa a platform to showcase their talent and live their dreams. They inspire us to become the best version of ourselves,” said Mathaba.

The experience has sharpened her public speaking skills, audience engagement and adaptability, traits she now brings into her daily work as an English and Social Sciences teacher at Sibusiso High School in KwaNongoma.

“Art helped me connect with my pupils and create a safe space for them,” she said.

Mathaba has introduced initiatives such as the Miss/Mr Sibusiso High School competition, where pupils can express their talents in poetry, music, dance and modelling.

“Being a creative made me realise how important it is to invest in young people, to help them recognise their talents and potential early,” she said.

“It has made me a teacher who pushes pupils to dream big and find purpose.”

Outside the classroom, Mathaba is a model, voice artist, pageant director, former ICORA FM radio presenter and Miss United Youth South Africa 2022. She has hosted everything from graduations to corporate events and has worked with SA Youth TV and Ambani Africa.

Grateful for the recognition, she says the award motivates her to continue breaking boundaries and inspiring others.

“No matter who you are or where you come from, your dreams are valid,” she said.

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