The North-West University’s (NWU’s) payoff line “It All Starts Here” came to life on the campus in Mahikeng during the recent talent extravaganza.

The Mafika Talent Extravaganza showcased the diverse talents within the NWU community, supporting the university’s strategic goal of promoting a vibrant student life.

The 7 500 seater Great Hall played host to the event which saw more than 50 acts – ranging from dance and poetry to rap, jazz and drama – dazzle the audience.

Contestants were judged on overall performance, audience response, stage appearance, originality and personality.

The show consisted of two rounds. The first round was an audition round in which 90 individuals took part. The second round showcased the talents of the final 12 acts.

And the winners are:

First place: Singer Kgalaletso walked away with R15 000

Second place: Joel danced his way to R10 000

Third place: Drama group Mmoronation walked away with R5 000

“Part of preparing students for the workplace is creating platforms for them to explore their talent and skills through various student life art initiatives and programmes,” says arts coordinator Charmain Mahopo.

“Taking note of South Africa's high unemployment rate among the youth, individuals can still use their talents to make a living. The Mafika Talent Extravaganza served as a catalyst – not only to induce a vibrant student life – but also to promote the campus mascot, Mafika, and the NWU brand.”

Tshepo Batlang, arts and culture officer of the Student Campus Council, was very impressed with the students’ participation.  

“The event was truly one of a kind. Numerous students showcased their special talents and enthralled the audience, having them singing and clapping along,” he says.

“Our mascot Mafika’s performance also had the crowd in stitches.”

 Kgalaletso wowed the audience and judges with her singing talent and walked away with the first prize of R15 000 during the recent Mafika Talent Extravaganza.