On 2 August, TED X, at the University of Pretoria (UP), hosted a talent show. This event aimed to showcase the unique talents that students at the University of Pretoria possess. It is a testament to extending a student’s experience at UP beyond academics, providing a holistic educational experience and educating the whole being, not just the mind.
The event took place in the law building, where the finalists’ exceptionally refined talents captivated the audience. The space, once a lecture hall, was magically transformed into a riveting stage, sparking excitement and anticipation for the highest caliber performances. Contestants showcased a rich tapestry of talents, including singing, dancing, speaking, and acting. The variety and depth of these talents left the audience inspired and amazed.
Four individuals judged the event. Firstly, Phetolo Pilane, who is a well-accomplished speaker and musician, as well as a talented guitarist who has aimed to assist others in refining their musical talents. He was joined by Luthando Maphanga, a self-proclaimed influencer who is in the process of releasing his first single. He states that he is not just an artist, but a force to be reckoned with. Third was Sharon Samuels, the head of transformation and outreach with TED X, and lastly was Lufezo Tafabe, a regional and national debater with numerous awards, including the best novice speaker for the Pan Africanist debating competition.
One of the finalists included Keara Ngum. She stated that she has been singing and forcing her family to participate in makeshift talent shows in their living room since she could talk. She says she grew up watching shows like The Sound of Music and other musicals and voice competitions, hoping to one day perform in them herself. She gave a breathtaking performance of Adele’s “All I Ask”, flawlessly executing a challenging performance song.
A performance that captured the hearts of many was that of Kelvin Hough. He performed a ballad while playing the guitar. He learnt to play guitar because he wanted to be able to play songs around the campfire for his friends. His emotional love piece had audience members waving their phones with their flashlights on, making everyone jealous of whoever the song was written for.
Ultimately, the winning performance was from Priyanka Moodley, a first-year BCom Accounting Science student who performed a Bollywood dance number. She is a self-taught dancer, having learnt to dance during the COVID-19 pandemic when she was inspired by the Bollywood movies she watched. She says, “Bollywood dancing gives me a sense of identity and comfort—it feels like home.”
The Talent Show was a testament to the student body’s incredible depth of creativity and skill. As the law building was transformed into a vibrant stage, it became clear that this event was more than just a display of individual talents as it celebrated the holistic educational experience that UP fosters. From the poignant ballads and captivating dance routines, to the impassioned performances and heartfelt stories, the event highlighted students’ diverse and rich talents to the UP community. The evening left the audience inspired and eager for more, proving that the arts and academic life can beautifully intertwine to enrich the student experience.
