By Marcus Moloko
The Breaking Down Borders Africa Tour has announced its highly anticipated return, with acclaimed poet and actress Botlhale Boikanyo unveiled as the new face of Season 2.
The tour, which first launched nearly a decade ago under the leadership of Paul Modjadji, will expand to 10 new African countries, including Morocco, Egypt, the Democratic Republic of Congo, and Cape Verde.
This season will place a stronger emphasis on storytelling and poetry, while retaining dance as a central element of African cultural expression.
Viewers will be immersed in the heritage, history, and creative landscapes of each country, discovering how young artists are shaped by their environments.
An ecstatic Boikanyo expressed her excitement at the announcement.
“Being announced as the new face of Breaking Down Borders is a dream come true. Taking the reins from Paul Modjadji, who successfully launched the platform 10 years ago, is a wonderful challenge. It is an honour to embark on my first Africa poetry tour with this incredible initiative.”
At just 11 years old, Botlhale became the first poet to win South Africa’s Got Talent, captivating audiences with her powerful spoken word performances.
She transitioned into television and film, with roles in e.tv’s Scandal! and films including the award-winning short film The Deal and What About the Boys.
Boikanyo co-hosted Teenagers on a Mission (TOMZ) on SABC1 and anchored major cultural events like the SATMA Awards, showcasing her versatility beyond poetry.
She performed a tribute to Nelson Mandela in New York and was named ambassador for the Legacy of Hope Foundation, joining a committee that included Maya Angelou, Whoopi Goldberg, and Charlize Theron.
Breaking Down Borders Africa Tour co-producer, Wandile Molebatsi, said Boikanyo’s presence ensures that the tour remains rooted in Africa’s cultural heritage while speaking directly to contemporary audiences.
With the Breaking Down Borders Africa Tour recently winning the Silver Telly Award in the Television, Travel, and Tourism category, Boikanyo’s role promises to elevate the series to new heights, bridging generations together through art, history, and movement.
