Thato Rantekane, better known as DJ Ooh Shucks, started his journey at the North-West University (NWU) in 2017. Like many students, he faced some bumps along the way, and in 2019, things got so tough that he had to step away from his studies. However, what seemed like the end became an essential new chapter for Thato.
After leaving university, Thato worked at an internet café for a year and became a junior manager at Carltex Canal Crossing. Six months into his job, he got some unexpected but good news – the NWU was willing to help him finish his studies. Knowing how important this was, Thato decided to quit his job and return to university in 2022.
When he returned, he learned that changes to the curriculum meant he needed one more year to complete his degree. But with the support of his former residence parent, the finance office and the student life office, Thato pushed through. That same year, PUKFM interviewed him, sharing his story with a broader audience.
2023 was a big year for Thato. While finishing his last module, he met Smangaliso Mabaso and DJ Stavo-SA. The two quickly teamed up, playing gigs together and releasing some singles. Their hard work paid off when they created their first album, the "MOFOKENG no MKHATSHWA" (MnM EP). For Thato, this was a dream come true, and for DJ Stavo-SA, it was the start of an exciting partnership.
2023 didn't just end with music for Thato - he also graduated and found temporary work at the NWU's Unit for Continuing Education (UCE).
In 2024, he continued to mix his love for music and community by working with the Students' interests and development (SID) and Student Campus Council (SCC) to host "Amapiano Friday", a weekly event that has become a student favourite. The concept, which Thato created initially with previous SRC president Yikumba Andreas and SRC Treasurer Franklin Kriel, is now evolving into "Move n Groove", with plans to shift the event to Saturdays. The new direction started with the duo's album launch at the Drakenstein restaurant on 26 July 2024.
Thato's journey from setbacks to success is a reminder that challenges can lead to great things. Whether spinning tracks or inspiring others, DJ Ooh Shucks shows that you can turn any obstacle into an opportunity to shine.
