Youth Month Spotlight: Seven South African Musicians graduate from Manhattan School of Music through Hugh Masekela Heritage Scholarship 

By CityLife Arts Writer 
As South Africa celebrates Youth Month, the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation proudly announces that seven recipients of the Hugh Masekela Heritage Scholarship have graduated from the prestigious Manhattan School of Music (MSM) in New York City. 

  These exceptional young South African musicians embody the spirit and legacy of Bra Hugh — a tireless advocate for music, education, and African heritage – encapsulated in his mantra ‘Love Learn & Teach’. Their achievements stand as a testament to the power of opportunity, mentorship, and cultural pride. 

  The graduates includes: 

Danno Petersen – drummer and motivational speaker 
Kabelo Mokhatla – percussionist and academic achiever 
Lifa Arosi – saxophonist and composer 
Motswedi “Moe” Modiba – vocalist and performer 
Nhlanhla Mahlangu – jazz artist and international performer 
Simon Manana – multi-instrumentalist and improviser 
Zoe Molelekwa – pianist and composer 

  Since the programme’s inception in 2019, the Hugh Masekela Heritage Scholarship has opened doors for talented South African musicians to access world-class music education at one of the world’s most prestigious conservatories. Offered in partnership with the Manhattan School of Music and the ELMA Music Foundation, the scholarship honours the life and legacy of Hugh Masekela by nurturing artistic excellence and cultural integrity. 

  “These graduates have not only honed their craft on a global stage but have also carried Hugh Masekela’s vision of African excellence and innovation into the world,” said a spokesperson for the Hugh Masekela Heritage Foundation. “Their success is a proud moment for South Africa and a powerful reminder of what investment in youth can achieve.” 

  The HMHF is working tirelessly to ensure a continuation of the project and hopes to announce the applications for a future intake in the near future.