SA: National youth talent competition announces top schools

The programme, which took place across several provinces, sought to identify young performers and creators using artistic expression to explore themes of identity, confidence and community pride. Participants competed in categories including rap, amapiano dance and creative storytelling.

The schools confirmed among the national winners are Umqhele Comprehensive School and Katlehong Engineering School in Thembisa, Gauteng; Sabela Senior Secondary School in Newcastle, KwaZulu-Natal; Le-Reng Secondary School in Ladybrand, Free State; Grace and Favour Christian Academy in Lerome, North West; ESCA Wanderers in Johannesburg; Tshilvho Primary School in Thohoyandou, Limpopo; Fulton School for the Deaf in Durban; and Hoërskool Cillié in Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.

The organisers said one additional school is yet to be announced to complete the national top 10.

Each winning school will receive R100 000 to support school and community development projects. Learners from the winning entries will also receive R35 000 in recognition of their participation and creative achievements.

According to organisers, the initiative will contribute a total of R1.35 million towards youth development and community upliftment projects across South Africa.

Speaking on behalf of one of the winning schools, Sabela Senior Secondary School teacher Thandeka Hadebe said the programme had encouraged learners to showcase their talents and boosted community pride.

“This recognition belongs to every learner who had the courage to put themselves forward and express who they are through music and dance. It has brought pride to our school, excitement to our community, and shown our learners that their talent has value. Most importantly, it reminds them that where they come from should never limit how far they can go,” she said.

The campaign was supported by dancer and entertainer Robot Boii, who served as a brand ambassador for the initiative.

The final winning school is expected to be announced at a later date.