By Shonani Mufamadi
Who would have thought that a campus crown could become a voice for the voiceless? For Thabo Gift Dinaka, a 20-year-old from Polokwane’s Extension 75, silence once defined his life. It taught him how dangerous it is to suffer alone, but it also shaped the leader he would become. Today, that same silence ignites his mission to transform pain into purpose as a second-year Bachelor of Science (Physical Sciences) student at the University of Limpopo.
Growing up in a community rich in spirit but scarce in opportunity, he learned early that nothing would be handed to him. Every step forward demanded courage and a refusal to stay silent.
Pageantry became his platform, not a stage for vanity. From Mr. Fresher, University of Limpopo 2024, to titleholder of Miss and Mr Youth Polokwane, he said, “IT’S ABOUT CREATING IMPACT AND CHALLENGING STEREOTYPES USING MY VOICE FOR CAUSES THAT MATTER.”
Thabo’s advocacy began with himself. As a teenager, he battled depression and anxiety, moments so heavy they led to thoughts of suicide. “THAT EXPERIENCE BROKE ME, BUT IT ALSO OPENED MY EYES. I REALIZED MEN DESPERATELY NEEDED A VOICE, A SAFE SPACE TO HEAL. I COULD EITHER STAY SILENT OR MAKE SURE NO ONE ELSE FELT ALONE THE WAY I DID.”
He started by organising peer support circles, hosting community talks, and offering mentorship to young men navigating emotional challenges. Slowly, he challenged a culture that demanded men to hide their pain.
“TRUE STRENGTH ISN’T IN HIDING PAIN,” HE SAYS. “IT’S IN SPEAKING, HEALING, AND RISING TOGETHER.”
Thabo’s influence extends beyond the campus. He works with schools and youth programs, teaching emotional intelligence, self-esteem, and mental health literacy. His approach is deliberate and empathetic. He amplifies voices that are often ignored and engages in advocacy on issues such as gender-based violence, queer inclusion, and mental health awareness.
“I DIDN’T WANT TO PERFORM ACTIVISM,” HE EXPLAINS. “I WANTED TO AMPLIFY VOICES ALREADY CRYING OUT FOR JUSTICE.”
The impact of his work is visible. According to him, more men are beginning to speak, to share their struggles, and to seek help without shame. “CHANGE IS HAPPENING. WHEN MINDS ARE EMPOWERED, LIVES TRANSFORM. THAT’S THE CHANGE I WANT TO EMBODY,” he said.
Now competing under the banner of Mr. Friendship South Africa (formerly Mr. South Africa Top Model), Thabo’s focus is clear: friendship as leadership. “I’M COMMITTED TO USING THIS PLATFORM TO FOSTER BROTHERHOOD AND MENTAL STRENGTH.”
Dikana continues to stand as living proof that true healing can be royal.
