High schools that shaped South Africa’s biggest stars

High schools attended by some famous South Africans

Long before they became chart-topping musicians, world-class athletes, media powerhouses and global business figures, some of South Africa’s most famous names were ordinary pupils juggling classes, exams and teenage ambitions.

Their stories prove that success has no single starting point, greatness can rise from township schools, suburban classrooms and elite private institutions alike.

From entertainment and sport to politics and business, these high schools played a role in shaping the journeys of South Africa’s icons.

DJ Black Coffee attended Zimele High School, where his early years laid the groundwork for a career that would later earn him international acclaim and global DJ dominance.

Nomzamo Mbatha went to Bechet High School, developing the discipline and confidence that would later define her rise as an actress, humanitarian and global brand ambassador.

Trevor Noah, one of South Africa’s most successful exports, was educated at Maryvale College before taking his sharp storytelling and humour to the world stage.

Minnie Dlamini is a proud alumna of Northlands Girls’ High, a school that helped shape the media personality who would become one of South Africa’s most recognisable television stars.

Siya Kolisi, Springbok captain and rugby icon, attended Grey High, while fellow rugby legend Bryan Habana passed through King Edward School, both institutions known for producing top sporting talent.

Kagiso Rabada attended St Stithian’s College, while Proteas captain Temba Bavuma studied at SACS, Fourways High and later St David’s, reflecting a journey shaped across multiple schools.

Cassper Nyovest went to Sol Plaatjie Secondary, where his early years preceded his rise to becoming one of South Africa’s biggest hip-hop exports.

Emtee attended Barnato Park High, while the late Riky Rick studied at Hilton College, a school that also produced several other high-profile figures.

AKA (Kiernan Forbes), whose influence on South African hip-hop remains profound, was educated at St John’s College.

Nasty C attended several schools, including Strelitzia Secondary, Durban High School and Allen Glen High, highlighting a non-linear path to success.

Johann Rupert, one of South Africa’s wealthiest businessmen, attended Paul Roos Gimnasium, while mining magnate Patrice Motsepe went to Tsogo High and St Mark’s.

Hotel and casino tycoon Sol Kerzner attended Athlone Boys’ High, while political figures Mmusi Maimane and Julius Malema studied at Allen Glen High and a combination of Mohlakaneng High and Prudence High, respectively.

Media personality Mac G is a Hyde Park High alumnus, while motivational speaker and entrepreneur Vusi Thembekwayo attended Benoni High.

Creative expression also flourished early for many stars.

Sho Madjozi studied at the International School of Tanganyika, Zakes Bantwini attended Nqabakazulu High, and Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron honed her craft at the National School of the Arts.

Global pop sensation Tyla attended Edenglen High, while Boity Thulo went to Potchefstroom Girls High, Pearl Thusi to Pinetown Girls High, and singer Mawhoo attended Bhekeshowe High and Kwasanti Public School.

Even tech billionaire Elon Musk has South African school roots, having attended Bryanston High and Pretoria Boys High. Rugby star Handré Pollard matriculated from Paarl Gimnasium, while retail mogul Christo Wiese attended Paarl Boys’ High.

What stands out across these stories is not the name of the school, but the reminder that ambition, talent and resilience can emerge from anywhere.

These stars didn’t just leave school with certificates, they left with lessons that helped shape their futures.

For young South Africans still sitting in classrooms today, their journeys serve as proof that the path to success often begins right where you are.