Thabang Malan wants to take his story to America
Thabang Malan’s transformation came when he learned to “close his eyes and open his heart”.
A remarkable young talent rising through the ranks with their inspiring journey of resilience and hope.
Thabang Tshabalala Malan is a local singer whose life has been a testament to overcoming adversity and embracing the power of music.
Now, Thabang Malan aspires to take his story to America’s Got Talent, not only to showcase his singing talent but to share his journey of hope with a broader audience.
His vision is to become an advocate for vulnerable children worldwide, spreading a message of perseverance.
“I don’t want to go to America’s Got Talent because I have a singing talent. No, I want to be part of it because I have a story to share with the world – especially welfare kids.”
Thabang Malan’s early life was marked by challenges, as he spent time in various children’s homes from the age of three.
Despite these difficult circumstances, he found support from important figures like Rina Malan of Amadea Safe House, who gave him her surname and name.
Later on, he found his community in his church where a close bond formed with his friend Hailey Bronkhorst.
These connections provided him with a sense of belonging and stability that allowed him to build a platform to share his journey.
“It was very hard for me to face the music, especially when I noticed that God and his people gave me a second chance in life,” Thabang Malan told Rekord.
“Thinking about starting my career as an artist makes me feel like I have a powerful testimony to tell to the world.
“Many children end up in prison, rehab or on the streets because they didn’t know what to do with their life after school or struggled with depression. So I am very blessed to start taking such a big step.”
It was during a period of battling depression and anxiety that Thabang Malan discovered his passion for singing.
Overcoming his struggles inspired him to pursue a music career, where he found a powerful outlet to share his experiences and connect with others facing similar challenges.
Thabang Malan’s transformation came when he learned to “close his eyes and open his heart”.
This change in perspective strengthened his faith in himself and his abilities.
He envisions using his musical journey to make a positive impact on the lives of others, especially children.
“God showed me that when I open my eyes, I am standing in front of billions of children [and I can] change their lives.”
His dream is to become a social worker and child and youth care worker, drawing from his own life experiences to empathise and support those in need.
Encouraged by artists he admired, Thabang Malan’s self-belief grew stronger.
On his 18th birthday, he was able to perform on the same stage as Jo Black.
“Having so many artists believing in me placed me in a vulnerable position – because I had to humble myself in that spot…”
During the lockdown, Thabang Malan turned to songwriting as a way to cope with depression and express his emotions.
The challenging period at Girls and Boys Town pushed him to find strength within himself, and writing became a therapeutic outlet for him to channel his feelings.
His songs are a reflection of his journey and struggles, and he hopes they resonate with others who may be going through difficult times.
“I had a big breakdown when I was in Girls and Boys Town – and yet I had to pull myself up again and again.
“Looking back from a year ago, I see that God took all these messed up feelings away,” said Thabang Malan.
“I had to write so many lyrics and melodies, and that is the only thing I had to cope with.”
As he continues on his musical journey, Thabang Malan aims to use his voice to make a difference and show the world that with determination and belief in oneself, anything is possible.
“I believe that somewhere in this world I can save a soul, I can start sharing my story not only in South Africa but worldwide.”
At the moment, Thabang Malan is looking to tour local schools and places of safety to share his story to show children like him what they can achieve.
He is also raising funds to build his platform to take his story to America’s Got Talent.
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