By Emily Setona
QWAQWA – Unathi Ndonga, an 18-year-old Grade 12 learner from HTS Louis Botha High School in Bloemfontein, has brought pride to the Free State by winning first place at the 2025 ABC Motsepe South African Schools Choral Eisteddfod (SASCE) National Championships.
The prestigious event took place on July 4 at the Rhema Bible Church in Randburg, Johannesburg, featuring choral groups and soloists from all nine provinces. Ndonga emerged victorious in the Mezzo Soprano/Alto Solo category, claiming the title of national champion after a powerful performance that impressed both judges and audiences alike.
Hailing from Rocklands in Mangaung, Ndonga has long been recognised for her rich voice and stage presence. Overwhelmed with emotion, she reflected on her journey as she accepted the award.
“I am very excited and still in disbelief. It’s a wonderful achievement and I’m really happy with the win,” she said. “I started singing at 14 and I absolutely love it.”
Ndonga credited legendary South African musicians as her inspiration, particularly the late Sibongile Khumalo.
“I adored her. She was a brilliant singer with a beautiful voice. I was greatly inspired by her and the likes of Busi Mhlongo.”
This victory comes after past disappointments.“In 2023, I came fourth in the same competition. In 2024, I didn’t participate because I was afraid of not winning. But this year, I believed in myself—and thankfully, I did.”
Looking to the future, Ndonga plans to study law next year while continuing her passion for music. “I’m going to study law, but I will still pursue music. I’ll be the singing lawyer!” she laughed.
She also shared a light-hearted memory from childhood:
“When we were little and played mantlwane, I always played the older sister. My friends used to tease me, saying I walked like an American lawyer—I don’t even know how they walk!”
Free State Premier MaQueen Letsoha-Mathae congratulated Ndonga, calling her win a triumph for the entire province. “This is a victory not just for Unathi, but for our whole province,” the Premier said in a statement.
Hosted annually by the Department of Basic Education in partnership with the Motsepe Foundation, the ABC Motsepe SASCE promotes music in schools and provides a platform for young talent to shine.
Ndonga’s victory is more than a personal milestone—it is a story of resilience, courage, and believing in one’s voice. Her journey will no doubt inspire many young South Africans to follow their dreams, no matter the odds.
