SABC3 hunts for fresh faces

Based on the successful Top Billing presenter searches held in 2010 and 2012, the station went on a countrywide search looking for three candidates from its pick of young hopefuls in Cape Town, Port Elizabeth, Durban and Johannesburg.

From thousands of entries, it has whittled it down to a Top 30, from which it will pick a Top 10 who will face the ultimate presenting challenges. This year there will be three winners; one will join Top Billing, another will present on the Expresso Breakfast Show and the third will be the co-host of a new SABC3 show, still to be announced.

From 3 April, fans can watch the show, dedicated to the memory of Simba Mhere, every Friday on SABC3 at 7.30pm. From 3 April, the 30 finalists from around South Africa are mentored by presenting greats, such as Ursula Chikane, Minnie Dlamini, Noeleen Maholwana-Sangqu and Leanne Mannas. They will then implement what they have learned in mini-challenges. The main panel of judges - Bonang Matheba, Jeannie D and Phat Joe - then determine who has what it takes to be in the Top 10.

The real challenges begin on 24 April, where under the watchful eye of the judges (Bonang, Jeannie D and Phat Joe), the finalists endure presenting tests such as researching and delivering fascinating inserts ranging from travelogues on local tourist destinations to cooking and DIY.