Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa
The annual Vice-Chancellor’s Cultural Evening themed “Echoes and Imprints” took place on 19 September at the University’s South Campus Auditorium, celebrating the living spirit of heritage.
As the final notes approached, the audience gently pleaded for one more song. Nomfundo Xaluva delivered “Young, Gifted and Black” with such grace and power, it felt like music even the heavens would crave. The crowd erupted in roaring applause, whistles, and cheers.
The variety of performances included acclaimed jazz vocalist Nomfundo Xaluva headlining alongside the Nelson Mandela University Symphony Orchestra, Jazz Ensemble, University choirs, visual artists, and spoken word performers.
Conducted by the renowned Kutlwano Masote, the event blended music, art, and storytelling into a powerful reflection of culture and identity.
Vice-Chancellor Professor Sibongile Muthwa in her welcome highlighted that “Today is a red-letter day for us. Our iconic namesake, Nelson Mandela, once said, ‘’If we look after our heritage, we also look after our future. Our programme this evening embodies exactly that”
Prof Muthwa emphasised that the performers are part of the University’s living heritage, even more meaningful with students and staff sharing the stage with headlined artists.
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Nomfundo Xaluva, and her backup singers
The multi-award-winning jazz vocalist, composer and educator, Nomfundo Xaluva‘s highlight of the evening was “sharing the stage with the students.”
She explained how rewarding it was to see young performers come alive, showcasing their warmth, energy, bubbliness, and professionalism.
She described her music as jazz deeply rooted in South Africa’s heritage drawing from Swing, Marabi, and Mbaqanga while also embracing contemporary influences making it both timeless and personal.
Performing in September, she noted, it carried a special meaning, as the season ushers in renewal and celebrates the connection between art and heritage.
Xaluva emphasised that for her, heritage is not confined to one month but a living part of who she is on and off stage.
Her advice for aspiring musicians and youth in general was, “Turn the talent into skills because the skill is more trustworthy and sustainable. You have time to hone your skill, it will pay back, you don’t have to rush becoming great. Be careful of social media because it’s a monster that is always hungry but never full.”
Lethabo Makuruetsa
Meanwhile, final-year Music Curriculum student Lethabo Makuruetsa enchanted the audience with her stage presence.
Through her energetic dance moves and commanding facial expressions, she held the entire room under her spell when she was singing “Let the music in the air”.
Zhang Yangyang, master’s student at the Centre for Women and Gender Studies, said “I come from Shanghai, China, and I really, really enjoyed the concert.
Even though I didn’t understand the language or the message, there was a nostalgic resonance I felt. At the end of the day, music brings us together.”
Academic developer Dr Viwe Ndayi described the event as nothing short of electrifying.
“I’ve seen Nomfundo Xaluva live so many times, but tonight, experiencing her with the Mandela community was truly phenomenal. It felt like home; it felt like what South Africa is known for. I am so proud to be part of Mandela University during this time”.