Renowned Deaf TV personality Thabo Maluleke inspires GP students with talk on sound and sign names

We were extremely blessed at the Girls’ Preparatory, just before half term, when Thabo Maluleke, a well-known TV personality from SABC 1’s YOTV, addressed our girls as a guest speaker.

About Mr Maluleke:

Thabo Nkatlo Wa Maluleke was born and raised in the famous Meadowlands suburb of Soweto township. He lost his hearing 16 years ago, while he was still in primary school, which meant that he had to learn a new language and culture and find ways of adapting to the ‘new’ community. It had never occurred to him that one day he would have to learn a new language as a communication method other than the then 11 official languages.

As part of his adaptation journey, he had to move out of mainstream schooling. He was enrolled at Sizwile School for the Deaf in Soweto. This is where he learnt South African Sign Language (SASL) and about deaf culture and the deaf community. In later years, he was enrolled at St Vincent School for the Deaf.

During his school years and during his journey of adaptation, he faced the daily challenges that all deaf people do. In experiencing these challenges, he wondered what he would be confronted with upon the completion of his studies and leaving the ‘safe’ school environment that catered specially for deaf people.

Thabo started becoming involved in many progressive activities such as debates and art-related activities and competitions. He found his passion in the dramatic arts and therefore enrolled in a Drama Club led by Kelly Fothergill Naude. It was when that he decided he wanted to further pursue his passion for performance arts.

He came across DTV (Deaf Television), a television show that aims to promote SASL, deaf culture and community. While working at DTV, Thabo acquired key industry-related skills, for example, TV presenting, script-writing and editing. South Africa has had many deaf interpreters, with the likes of Simphiwe Mkhize; however, Thabo is proud to be recorded as the youngest interpreter on live TV.

Thabo strives to continue breaking down the perception barriers that deaf interpreters are less capable than hearing interpreters. ‘It is all in how well we clearly communicate! I would like to see us growing and working well together as professionals. We can’t work in silos,’ says Thabo.

A morning at the Girls’ Prep:

Thabo shared his unique perspective on sound and deaf culture, leaving a lasting impression on our students.

During his talk, Thabo recounted his personal experiences as a deaf individual, opening the minds of our students to a whole new understanding of the world of sound. His passion for inclusivity in our country truly struck a chord with everyone.

As a special touch, Thabo assigned five students their own special sign name, emphasising the power of visual language. The excitement in our RCLT hall was palpable as our students embraced their sign names, honouring and celebrating diversity.

Thabo’s presence and insights have undoubtedly made a lasting impact on our students, empowering them to see beyond physical limitations and embrace the strength that lies in diverse perspectives. His talk has set them on a transformative journey of inclusivity, understanding and empathy.

By: Miss Romy Jordan, Grade 4 Teacher