Meet the Judges

Nicole Austin

Nicole Austin is a Pharmacist specialising in strategic communications. Founder of a communications agency, Nicole is also a TV presenter, Survivor SA Runner-up and a previous Mrs South Africa. No stranger to the concept of Brave - Nicole has a passion for climbing mountains, and takes people with her on transformational journeys into the wild to help them realise their potential. Nicole is an ambassador for Rare Diseases SA, and also sits on their executive board. She has climbed Mt Kilimanjaro, Everest Base Camp, Mont Blanc in the Alps and 14 local peaks, to raise funds and awareness for children with dread diseases. 

Derek Watts

As one of South Africa’s leading investigative journalists, Derek Watts knows what it means to be brave. Derek Watts has been a journalist for over 35 years, presenting on South African television since 1985. Derek has been an anchor and lead journalist on MNET’s Carte Blanche for over 30 years exposing some of the biggest scandals both here in SA and abroad. As the ambassador for Adcock Ingram OTC Sponsors of Brave – no person could be a better advocate for Bravery than Derek Watts.

Palesa Tembe

Palesa Tembe is well known as the host of SABC3's Afternoon Express.  She has also appeared in a couple of television productions. You may have seen her in Isibaya on Mzansi Magic and The Alliance on ETV to name just a few. Palesa’s passion for entertainment has led her to create a YouTube channel named Upbeat with Pali T and collaborate on another named Revo TV. Palesa won the SABC 3 Presenter Search on 3 talent competition, where she was selected to present on Afternoon Express. She studied drama and psychology at Rhodes University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts. Born and raised in Durban, Palesa treasures her Christian upbringing and family values.

Zoë Brown

Zoë Brown is a well-known and renowned TV host, profoundly known for her role on Expresso, SABC3’s morning show. She’s also been the presenter and host of countless other shows on Kfm, as well as Cape Radio Station. From humble beginnings on MFM campus radio, Zoë carved a pathway for herself in the industry and worked as a Presenter on Kfm during her studies at Stellenbosch University. In 2015, Zoë won the Presenter Search on 3 landing her the Expresso show role.

Ndolvu Youth Choir

Since its inception in 2009, the Ndlovu Youth Choir has become one of the world's most treasured groups. Their unique musical arrangements, powerhouse vocals, irresistibly combined with mesmerising choreography and infectious energy have inspired millions across the globe. An eleven-year journey has seen an after-school programme for orphaned and vulnerable children, started by the Ndlovu Care Group, transform into an international recording and touring career. Participation does not only instil values of togetherness, a work ethic and a sense of responsibility, but it develops self-discipline, self-confidence, and leadership. Through the choir, choristers gain a global perspective that offers an early pathway to artistic and professional achievement. The choir uses their talents to share their inspirational story with the world through song and dance.

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