Pearl Thulani Ngathi TUT Pretoria campus choir Chairperson.
His remarkable talent on display on the big stage at the 17th South African Film and Television Awards on 30 September 2023, left a lasting impression on the media and entertainment industry.
Since 2022, Pearl Thulani Ngathi, a driven postgraduate student enrolled for a qualification in Administrative Information Management Services, and Chairperson of the TUT Pretoria Campus Choir, has guided the group to innumerable victories and accumulated an amazing collection of trophies.
Thulani enjoys music as a hobby, but always puts academics first. “I have a profound love for music. It has a huge impact on my life and gives me happiness, motivation and emotional upliftment. I understand the importance of maintaining a balance between my academic work and musical endeavors, therefore time management and prioritisation are important to attain this balance. I have a regular timetable and reserve specific time intervals for music practice and academic work to ensure each receives adequate attention.
“I am very honoured and grateful for the opportunity to represent TUT and Gauteng in the 5th European Choir Games and Grand Prix of Nations in Sweden's Norrköping in 2023. Since the event brings choirs from all over the world together, it is very significant because it promotes cultural exchange and fosters a sense of community through singing,” said Thulani.
“I am aware of the responsibility this entails because I am now an ambassador and spokesperson for TUT and Gauteng. Knowing that we are representing our institution and region on an international stage, inspires me to perform to the best of my ability. Our diligent planning and devotion to prepare for this event, have included arduous rehearsal and a determination to reach creative perfection,” said Thulani.
Thulani is excited about the competition as he will learn more about the history and musical traditions, “I am proud to be part of a choir that celebrates the musical history and skill of TUT and Gauteng. In addition to competition, this event will celebrate the variety of musical traditions and the bond that unites people because of their love of music. I am looking forward to the cultural interaction and to learn from other choirs and musicians from other parts of the world. Looking ahead, I am eager to deliver our finest performances, leave a lasting impact and uphold the reputation of TUT and Gauteng.”
Thanking his colleagues and the TUT community, Thulani said: “I want to express my sincere gratitude to my colleagues at the Advancement and Partnerships Office, whose steadfast support, guidance and teamwork have been vital throughout this process. Their assistance, direction and knowledge have really been helpful in ensuring that I seize this opportunity. In addition, I am incredibly grateful to my fellow Pretoria Campus choir members for their passion and commitment since I became the Chairperson. I will proudly always represent you all.”
“Thulani is living up to the University’s mission of pursuing excellence in every sphere. He is an example of TUT’s brand promise of producing graduates who are fully empowered to compete on an international scale. We are proud of his achievements. He doesn’t only represent TUT, but South Africa at large,” said Shalati Portia Davhana, Manager: Alumni Relations, Fund Raising - Advancement Office.