Learners from Shihlobyeni Primary School were crowned overall winners of the inaugural Elim Talent Show, held at Bodlongwa River Resort near Elim on Saturday, 26 July. The event offered a platform for residents of Elim and surrounding villages to showcase their talents and celebrate local creativity.
The show was hosted by the Njhakanjhaka Tribal Development Programme, in partnership with the University of Venda (Univen) and Ms Tlangelani Hlongwane, popularly known as the Tsonga Queen. The event was graced by legendary singer Esther Ogbeifun, also known as Esta M, whose music promotes traditional values and raises awareness about gender-based violence. Other notable guests included Xitsonga musician Jabulani Shilenge, known by his stage name J.B Shilenge, and Dr Mbongeni Maziya, a senior lecturer at Univen's Institute for Rural Development.
Shihlobyeni Primary's Xibelani dance impressed the judges with its message and stage presence, earning the learners first place, a R3,000 cash prize and additional gifts.
Second place was shared by Tshabopja Moshoma (poetry), The Killer RSA (dance), and Vyet Dance Crew (dance), who each walked away with R2,000. Vyet Drama Group came third in the drama category, receiving R850.
Ms Given Nyari, leader of the ten-member Shihlobyeni team made up of Grade 5 to 7 learners, described the experience as life-changing. "I was very happy. This made us believe that we can go far, even reach the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture one day," she said. "The competition helped us stay off the streets after school and discover our talents. It was well organised and gave everyone a fair chance."
Ms Molly Ameker, coordinator of the Njhakanjhaka Tribal Development Programme, said the talent show formed part of a broader effort to uplift young people in rural communities. "It aims to tackle youth unemployment and reduce alcohol and drug abuse, as well as teenage pregnancy. Elim's Got Talent 2025 is the first of its kind," she said.