Mandla Maseko

Brand South Africa congratulates all the Class of 2014 for successfully concluding their formal school careers. We wish the matriculants well as they pursue opportunities beyond the walls of their schools and urge them to play their part to positively contribute towards building our country.

The sixth episode of Brand South Africa's Play Your Part television series, which airs on SABC 2 on Sunday 20 July at 9pm, features pioneering South Africans who are Playing their Part by pushing the boundaries of technology, the environment and space.

Nelson Mandela taught us not to let our circumstances stop us from achieving greatness. Mandla Maseko is doing just that. A part-time DJ from Mabopane who had to put his studies on hold because of financial constraints, is to become the first black astronaut.

Nelson Mandela taught the world plenty of things; notably, don't let your circumstances stop you from achieving greatness. Mandla Maseko is doing just that. A part-time DJ from Mabopane who had to put his studies on hold because of financial constraints, he is to be the first black astronaut.

The recently held elections shone a spotlight on the importance of active citizenry, pride and patriotism in our country and its heritage as well as an indomitable hope for a better future, says Brand SA's Wendy Tlou.

It's a long way from Mabopane to outer space, but Mandla Maseko has strapped on his boots and is on the way there. The young DJ will be the first black African astronaut, after beating a million or so contestants to win the global Axe Apollo Space Academy competition.