The NWU-Arts Society DIVACO celebrated a significant milestone on July 10, 2024, with their first-year production, ‘Trek!’ The play, penned by Samuel Jumat and directed by Jade Sateria, was met with widespread acclaim, marking a triumphant moment for the new members of the society.
The production showcased the talents of the first-year students, drawing praise from the audience and affirming the society’s reputation for excellence. The performance not only highlighted the creative abilities of the students but also underscored the supportive and nurturing environment fostered by DIVACO.
Andrew Peter Rossouw, a third-year Bachelor of Nursing Sciences student, shared his experience: “I take the arts very personally, and I’m rather a person who likes to express myself in different ways. DIVACO gave me that getaway to escape the harshness of reality and to be actively engaged in what I love. The people (all love for them) make DIVACO even more precious for me, and that’s why they will always have my support.” Reflecting on the first-year production, he added, “It was a process to get to the point where we delivered a ‘masterpiece,’ and it is evident that everyone involved was dedicated to what was expected. I’ve learned that I can work with people like them. Yes, there are times to play, but if they want to work, THEY MEAN BUSINESS.”
Kopano Tlhale, a first-year Economic Sciences with Informatics student and member of the dancing team, expressed his newfound appreciation for the society: “What I’ve come to love about DIVACO is that it’s not just about putting on a great show; it’s about finding another family where everyone shares pure love and kindness. Talking about our first year’s production, it was truly one of the highlights of my year. It allowed me to discover my strengths as a dancer and connect with myself on a deeper level. They say ‘dance is a hidden language of the soul,’ and this experience has certainly taught me about discipline and endurance. DIVACO has become my second home, a place where I can freely express myself as an individual. It’s also where dreams come to life, and I couldn’t be more grateful to be a part of it.”
Kelebogile, a first-year BCom Management Science with Business Management student, shared how DIVACO helped her step out of her comfort zone: “I have learned so many things besides getting to know such amazing talented people. I have learned to get out of my comfort zone, doing something I’m not really used to doing. I almost did not go to the auditions for the first year’s production, but someone within DIVACO gave me the best advice, ‘You will never know if you don’t try.’ The way I am so connected with DIVACO, I consider them as my second family. I definitely made the right choice joining DIVACO. My lifelong dream is to entertain people (acting, TV presenter, influencer), so I guess DIVACO was a start, and I hope it will eventually lead me to greater heights. I will always be grateful for such an opportunity.”
The chairperson of DIVACO, Chelsea Jackson, reflected on the society’s journey and achievements: “DIVACO is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year, and it’s incredible to see how far we’ve come. This production, ‘Trek!’, is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our members. Our first-year students have shown remarkable talent and commitment, and I am immensely proud of what we have achieved together.”
