“TOMz is a science and technology show that inspires young minds with edutainment and educational information about the latest science and technology. The show will influence ordinary South Africans when it comes to science and technology. The show tackles topics that viewers can relate to and gives them a platform to ask questions if they’re not clear about something. This is made easy on the website,” says Siyabonga.
Gwala was bitten by the television industry bug when he was much younger. He began performing in stage plays in primary school and remembers his drama teacher telling him to pursue a career in the field of acting. His teacher said he’s very good at it and the passion is there to follow his dreams. Gwala immediately started locking himself in his room and started presenting to the mirror.
After school, in 2013, he enrolled at the University of Johannesburg. Gwala is doing his fourth and final year of studying towards BA Humanities and majors in Sociology and Development studies. After graduating, he plans on doing his honours in Performing Arts at AFDA. He made his debut in the film Second Chance and scored his first presenting gig in late 2014 on Geleza Nathi. He was recently casted for Jonny Clegg's new music video as a young impoverished boy.
Presenter Katlego Maboe is Gwala’s inspiration. His favourite movie is iNumber Number. “I'm proudly South African and support local talent. The storyline in iNumber Number is excellent and the cast is amazing,” he says. His favourite actors include Sdumo Mtshali, Menzi Ngubane and TV veteran Vusi Kunene. His favourite actresses are Nomzamo Mbatha, Jessica Nkosi and Nompilo Gwala.
In his leisure time Gwala swims, reads motivational books and listens to music, particularly hip hop. His favourite radio station is Metro FM because their playlists consist of more local music. Brenda Fassie's Vulindlela is the most memorable song in his life because it reminds him of his mom, she used to play the song when he was young.
See more of Gwala on TOMz season eight, every Monday and Tuesday on SABC1, channel 191 on DStv at 16:00. TOMz is proudly brought to SABC1 screens by SABC Education with support from the Department of Science and Technology. The show is produced by I Love That productions.