Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University (SMU) celebrated the creativity and diverse talents of its students when the SMU Amphitheatre came alive for the Explosive 2026 Talent Show, held under the theme “Power of Expression”.
The annual showcase gave students a platform to express themselves through poetry, music, and other artistic performances while competing for the top three positions. The event also reflected SMU’s commitment to a vibrant student experience that complements academic and professional development.
The evening opened with a welcome from Tulani Nkuntse, Acting Executive Director: Student Affairs, who encouraged students and guests to embrace the event’s spirit and celebrate the creativity within the SMU community. As the competition unfolded, contestants took to the stage before a panel of judges, demonstrating their abilities and using their performances to connect with the audience.
The first round featured a range of vocalists, poets and artists, with contestants challenged to communicate their individual stories and personalities through their chosen forms of expression. The second round raised the intensity as the performers returned to the stage to deliver their strongest acts while the judges assessed their performances and determined the final results.
Among the judges was South African gospel artist, vocal coach, composer and artist Tshepo Nyawuza, who praised the level of talent on display. “I am really happy to see the amount of talent that exists here at SMU. There is so much creativity and potential among the students, and events like this give them an opportunity to express themselves and grow,” Nyawuza said.
Nyawuza also performed some of his own songs, drawing an enthusiastic response from the audience. His participation added an established artistic perspective to an event centred on developing and celebrating emerging student talent. “I wanted the students to understand that expression is about more than simply performing. It is about being confident in who you are, telling your story and allowing people to experience your talent,” he said.
The competition culminated in the recognition of the top three performers. Poet Proud Minisi claimed first place and received R5 000, while vocalist Mayana Mathonsi took second place and received R3 000. Poet Thembeka Bengu finished third and was awarded R2 000.
Beyond the competition and prizes, the talent show gave students an opportunity to demonstrate abilities that may not always be visible in lecture halls, laboratories and clinical learning environments. The “Power of Expression” theme highlighted the role of creativity in building confidence, communication skills and a sense of community among students.
Nyawuza encouraged the university to continue providing platforms that enable students to develop their artistic abilities and explore their potential.
“SMU should continue giving students these kinds of platforms because you never know who is sitting in the audience or who is standing on that stage. Some of these students have the potential to go very far,” he said.
The Explosive 2026 Talent Show demonstrated that student development extends beyond academic achievement. Through initiatives that promote creativity, confidence and self-expression, SMU continues to foster a holistic student experience while preparing future health professionals who can contribute meaningfully to society and the health sector.
By Dimakatso Modise
