Celebs Like Thuso, Trevor, Tyla Set Good Example for the Youth

(The Post News)– On June 16 1976, about 20,000 students in Soweto courageously came together and took a stand against the discriminatory and oppressive apartheid regime, particularly the Bantu Education of 1953. The protest resulted in roughly 200 students being brutally murdered.

Today, the youth remain at the front lines of fighting for a diverse, peaceful, and just society. Although they account for more than half of the country’s population and serve as a powerful catalyst for transformation and innovation, they are still marginalized when it comes to deciding on critical issues that affect them, such as the escalating threats of climate instability and high unemployment rates.

Even with all the challenges faced by the youth in SA, there are some people who dared to believe and dream beyond the limitations. Thus, as the country celebrates Youth Month, it is crucial that the light is shone on those representing and flying the flag high on an international level.

Here are some of the few South Africans who are raising the flag globally:

Trevor Noah
Born and raised in Johannesburg, Trevor Noah first captured hearts with his 2009 solo comedy show ‘The Daywalker’, which also became his first smash hit. His talent then travelled international waters when he replaced Jon Stewart as the host of ‘The Daily Show’ in 2014. After a successful 7 seasons, Noah stepped down in 2022 to follow his heart’s desire and take on even more comedy shows.

It is also worth noting that Noah has an autobiography titled ‘Born a Crime’, where he speaks about his experience growing up in the apartheid government and how he had to grow up hidden in the shadows, not knowing who he truly was because being Coloured, especially with having a Black and White family heritage, was regarded as an illegal act. Despite his background, Noah still followed his dreams, and today he is one of the industry’s most highly requested entertainers. Noah hosted the 2025 Grammy Award show—for his 5th time in a row. It is without a doubt that Trevor Noah’s journey is the perfect example to youth that your adversities at home don’t define your destiny.

Thuso Mbedu
Although many know the beautiful Thuso Mbedu for playing the character of Nawi alongside the legendary Viola Davis in ‘The Woman King’ and for Cora in ‘Railway Road’, her fans know her from the South African drama ‘Is’thunzi’, where she played the character of a troubled teenager called Winnie Bhengu. Mbedu was raised by her grandmother after losing both her parents at a very young age. However, she didn’t let that stop her from chasing after her dreams. The actress is expected to return to our screens in September as Sergeant Aleah Clinton in a crime series called ‘Task‘. Earlier this month, she also announced the production wrap of a Netflix show she’ll be starring in called ‘Children of Blood and Bone’. Today, Mbedu is an award-winning actress with 2 Emmy nominations to her name.

Tyla
Starting her musical journey in local venues at only 19, Tyla, aka ‘pretty girl from Joburg’, always dreamt of being the icon that she is today. In a 2024 A Magazine interview, the global superstar expressed how she never thought it’d be possible for a South African girl like her to ‘do all the things she wanted to do’. However, because of her dedication and having the courage to dream beyond the imaginable, the award-winning artist shares her music – infused with her Amapiano roots, alongside R&B and pop – with the rest of the world. She has also been announced as the host of the 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards, reminding young Africans like herself that there is no such thing as ‘dreaming too big’.

South Africa has undoubtedly birthed some of the greats who continue to raise the flag up high and encourage young people across the continent. This includes notable figures such as Nomzamo Mbatha, who continues to move the needle on and off our screens, despite her unfavourable background. These gems are a powerful reminder to the youth of Africa that the greatest weapon you have, which can never be taken away from you, is to dream big.

Moreover, this serves as proof that aside from birthing historical figures like Nelson Mandela, South Africa is also known for bringing the world together through Amapiano music and consistently showcasing excellence with our talented gems that motivate the youth, not only in the country but across the whole of Africa.