In honour of Youth Month, the National Institute for Humanities and Social Sciences (NIHSS) proudly presents the Beyond 76 Series: Youth Knowledge in Motion. This series celebrates the bold research, critical thought, and visionary work of Master’s and Doctoral graduates under the age of 35. These dynamic young scholars are reshaping South Africa and the continent through transformative ideas and scholarship. Their work echoes the courage of the youth of 1976 and carries forward a legacy of change, justice, and economic emancipation. Join us as we spotlight the next generation of changemakers in the Humanities and Social Sciences.

1. In 2025, what does Youth Month mean to you — personally, academically, or as a young South African?

In 2025, Youth Month serves as a powerful reminder of both our historical struggles and the unfinished business we still face as young South Africans, especially in the academic space.

2. What impact do you hope your NIHSS supported research will have on society or your field?

My NIHSS-supported research, titled Investigating the Current Challenges and Discovering Workable Solutions for the Future of Opera Companies in South Africa, seeks to make a meaningful contribution to both the arts and broader society. I hope this study serves as a bridge to close the historical gaps created by the apartheid regime, which left a legacy of inequality and exclusion in the cultural and performing arts sectors.

Opera in South Africa has long been perceived as an elitist and Eurocentric art form. Through this research, I aim to reimagine and decolonise the opera landscape by advocating for inclusive practices that reflect the country’s diverse cultures, languages, and lived experiences. I hope the study inspires sustainable transformation in arts institutions, supports the development of emerging artists from marginalized communities, and fosters a more representative and accessible operatic tradition that resonates with all South Africans.