Botlhale Boikanyo, 21, made history when she won SA’s Got Talent at the age of 11 for her electrifying poetry.Over a decade later, the young woman has matured and knows exactly what she wants to accomplish in her life.
Looking back, she says the win provided a way for her family to escape a cycle of poverty and opened her world to possibilities she never imagined.
“When I got that big break, I was hungry enough for it, and had to make everything else work. I missed school for days, but I made sure that all my assignments were done,” she says.
Her achievements include being awarded the SATMA Best Praise Singer Award, performing at the televised live ceremony in 2013, and performing a tribute to Madiba at The Legacy of Hope Nelson Mandela’s Children’s Hospital Campaign Launch in New York, among others.
Despite having a large platform from an early age, she chose to further her studies. Boikanyo recently graduated from AFDA with a BA in Motion Picture Medium.
“I was excited to study because I have loved directing since high school. I was always inquisitive about how stories came to life. As much as I have been afforded the opportunity to be in front of the camera, I have always wondered what kind of work goes on behind the scenes.”
Boikanyo wears a number hats; she is now an actor, television host, and all-around arts enthusiast. She claims she has always desired to be multifaceted and unconstrained.
“Poetry was my first love. I first stepped on stage when I was six for poetry. I also wanted to pursue other things in the arts.
“I am a creative at heart, so, whether it be through dance, painting or any other medium, I have always wanted to spread my wings. The arts is where my purpose lies, and where God has placed me.”
Boikanyo, a perfectionist, admits to struggling to genuinely appreciate moments. “I’m always working on perfecting whatever medium I’m working on at the time.” But it may also be detrimental since it prevents me from totally immersing myself in the present moment; I constantly reflect on how I could have done better.”
Boikanyo escaped the traps of fame that affect many child stars by having a solid base of family and close friends. She also claims that religion has been a wonderful grounding influence in her life.
