We chat to Jess Tims, who is a mentor on SABC 1’s Future Leaders, a television series that aims to empower the youth.
By: Fundiswa Nkwanyana
Pic: Peter Whitefield
1.My name is Jessica Mthimkulu, but I am popularly known as Jess Tims. I am 25 years old, and was born in Joburg. I am dynamic, and want to play an active role in youth empowerment. I also want to represent different cultures as my dad is Zulu and my mom coloured. Over the years, I have learnt to balance and embrace both cultures.
2. Growing up as a child with two different cultures moulded me into who I am today. I can easily relate to different cultures because I was once caught in-between two of them. Growing up, I didn’t understand why I had to wear a skirt when attending a funeral in the rural KwaZulu-Natal. There were many mixed emotions and unanswered questions as people always asked me about my hair type. It was confusing, but I learnt a lot. I want people to know that we can be united in diversity.
3. I am excited about my career growth. I started off as a YoTV presenter. Since then, I have been able to immerse myself in more challenging roles. Right now, I am growing and learning a lot from Future Leaders. As a mentor, I am excited about the opportunity to improve the lives of young people.
4. Youth empowerment is important to me. I want to associate myself with initiatives that are youth empowerment-oriented. I believe in empowerment through entertainment, and I know that our youth react positively to such initiatives.
*Catch Jess on Future Leaders on SABC 1, Tuesdays at 9pm
