Award-winning poet, actress, and television personality Botlhale Boikanyo has marked a major milestone in her life and career, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts Honours in Film & Television from the University of the Witwatersrand.
The former winner of South Africa’s Got Talent celebrated the accomplishment on Instagram, sharing the significance of the moment with her followers. In her post, she looked back on her path from her hometown of Mahikeng—formerly known as Mafikeng—to achieving her honours degree at Wits.
Boikanyo wrote, “Here: a black girl from Maftown who dared to dream.” She then added, “We did it Bestiees!!!! Officially a Bachelor of Arts Honors in Film & Television from the University of the Witwatersrand graduate.”
Alongside the announcement, she expressed deep appreciation for the chance to continue her education, pointing to her faith and the people who supported her throughout her studies.
“Forever grateful for the privilege of learning, the gift of storytelling, and the grace that carried (and continues to carry) me through. To God be all the glory.”
Graduation day reflections
- Boikanyo shared a heartfelt graduation vlog, calling the ceremony an unforgettable moment that felt like prayers answered.
- In the clip, she described walking across the stage as something she would always cherish, saying it felt like being guided by salvation’s joy.
- She emphasized that the biggest highlight wasn’t only the degree itself, but being surrounded by the people who love and support her.
She added, “What a glorious day. Getting to walk across the stage as a Wits graduate is truly a moment I’ll forever cherish. This felt like an answered prayer, truly basking in the joys of salvation.”
“The highlight of my day though was definitely being held by my community. Oh what a love, these are the people who prayed for me, believed in me and continue to celebrate me. I love you all so much.”
Boikanyo also used the post to thank several people who helped make the day special. She specifically credited her partner, photographer Zama Nkunjana, her mother for her makeup, the designer behind her graduation outfit, her hairstylist, and a friend who helped create her graduation cap.
To close out her message, she shared the Bible passage that guided her during her studies—Ephesians 3:20—writing: “Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us.”
