From hopefuls to stars: Anelisa Jaxa triumphs in SuperSport MVP talent search

After weeks of intense competition and unscripted drama, Anelisa Jaxa from Lady Frere in the Eastern Cape was crowned the inaugural SuperSport MVP at a live finale held on Sunday, December 14, at SuperSport Studios.

The talent search, designed to unearth Africa’s next generation of diverse sports broadcasting voices, drew over 2 500 entrants from across the continent. From this vast pool, the Top Ten finalists faced high-pressure challenges, live television performances and evaluations from an esteemed panel of judges and mentors.

“I feel happy, amazed and humbled. I have always believed that I’m talented, but I never imagined my abilities would be recognised at this level,” Jaxa told SuperSport after being named MVP. “This is SuperSport, so to be named number one of the best of the best and to hear other contestants say that I deserve to win is truly overwhelming. It reassures me that I’m on the right track. I thank God for blessing me with this gift. I can already feel the change in my life and I’m deeply grateful for the support I have received from so many people.”

Reflecting on the responsibilities ahead, she added: “I am no longer the Anelisa I was before. I am now Anelisa, representing one of the biggest brands. Consistency is something I know I must deliver in every task given to me. I’m beyond happy; this moment still feels like a dream.”

Second and third place winners, Relebogile Mabawa and Yvette Mhlauli, both from Johannesburg, also walked away with special prizes and opportunities to carve out a future at SuperSport, cementing the show’s legacy as a launchpad for careers in broadcasting.

Judges praised the finalists’ courage and skill. Motshidisi Mohono, whose own career began with a similar talent search, said:

“My experience working on SuperSport MVP Talent Search has felt full circle. I know the bravery it takes to put yourself out there and take a shot at a different life and I also know the pressures that come with having to perform in front of the judges when you essentially don’t know a thing about television broadcasting. That’s what makes this so special. These contestants are way past the boundary of their comfort zones but are performing at such a high level, in an environment they know very little about. That’s impressive.”

Arthur Khoza, SuperSport Rugby Producer and judge, added:

“The show has been an unforgettable experience for me. It celebrates raw talent, passion and the future of sport broadcasting in South Africa. As a key contributor, I had the privilege of witnessing extraordinary hopefuls push their limits and showcase their unique talent … I am excited to see how this show will shape the industry going forward, opening doors, launching careers and giving us a whole different breed of broadcaster.”

Guest judge and rapper Nomuzi Mabena (Moozlie) called the experience “electric” and highlighted the depth of South African talent:

“My 13 years and counting career is proof that competitions like this really do work and that South Africa is bursting with talent. The raw talent we witnessed wasn’t just impressive; it was a reminder of how much passion and potential live in South Africa’s young storytellers.”

Mentor Nazli Hamilton reflected on the personal growth she witnessed:

“Seeing how much it means to the contestants was a great reminder of the power that sits in the SuperSport brand. This process has taken our customers behind the veil and made them part of the process of picking fresh faces at SuperSport.”

Anchor and judge Carol Tshabalala described the atmosphere as “electrifying,” while guest judge Smash Afrika commended the contestants’ combination of passion, dedication and confidence.

The SuperSport MVP Talent Search, hosted by Hope Mbhele and Tshego Koke, was made possible by sponsors including SuperSportBet, Honor, Old School, Edgars and Southern Sun. Beyond entertainment, the initiative is a strategic investment in Africa’s broadcasting talent, ensuring authentic and diverse voices in sports media.

For Anelisa Jaxa and her fellow finalists, the competition has not only been about winning, it has been about seizing the opportunity to become the next generation of storytellers for African sports.