Young voices make their mark at Nova Pioneer’s Got Talent
Learners from across the school network performed at Wits Linder Auditorium, with Cherry Sparkles winning the primary school category and Miyelani Mdhluli taking top honours in the senior school category.
Learners from Nova Pioneer’s South African campuses took to the stage at the Wits Linder Auditorium on September 19 for the second edition of Nova Pioneer’s Got Talent.
The event brought together learners, families and teachers for an evening of music, dance, poetry and other creative performances, celebrating the talent and hard work of young people across the school network.
Cherry Sparkles and Miyelani Mdhluli take top honours
Cherry Sparkles from Nova Pioneer Midrand Primary, Hope Majong, Kwande Mgandela, Nkanyezi Mdletshe and Zinathi’ntsikelelo Motla won the primary school category.
In the senior school category, Miyelani Mdhluli from Nova Pioneer Ruimsig Senior took first place, while Oratile Mateane from Nova Pioneer Ormonde Senior was named runner-up.
Miyelani (14) stood out with a poetry performance addressing gender-based violence. Her piece explored the dangers girls face and the lengths they sometimes go to survive.
Through her words, she brought an important social issue to the stage and encouraged the audience to reflect on the realities many young people face.
The evening also featured performances filled with energy, humour and imagination, showing the different ways learners express themselves.
Each act reflected hours of practice, dedication, and the courage to perform in front of an audience.
Industry professionals judge performances
Visual artist and filmmaker Justice Mukheli, singer and songwriter Nanette, and actor, voice artist and teacher Lesoko Seabe judged the performances.
Current Novaneer Ryan Matande and Nova Pioneer alumnus Reabetswe Moleko served as masters of ceremonies, guiding the audience through the programme.
Platform builds confidence and teamwork
Nova Pioneer’s Got Talent is one of the school network’s key programmes, allowing learners to explore their interests and develop their abilities beyond the classroom.
It also brings together learners from different campuses, allowing them to share their talents and learn from one another.
For many learners, performing on stage is about more than winning a competition. It builds confidence, encourages teamwork and teaches them to face challenges.
The event also allowed families and teachers to see the skills and creativity learners continue to develop.
While the winners received recognition for their performances, every participant gained valuable experience and shared something of themselves with the audience.
The second edition of Nova Pioneer’s Got Talent ended with a celebration of young talent and the importance of giving learners a platform to express themselves.
