Dr Tessa Dowling has been described by a leading language academic as ‘both erudite and hilarious’.
She holds a PhD in African languages from the University of Cape Town, where she currently lectures. She has received a provincial award for promoting multilingualism and has taught many luminaries, including Helen Zille, to speak Xhosa, Mandela’s mother tongue.
She has written textbooks for the learning of African languages, as well as English, and is frequently called upon by the media to comment on issues relating to African languages.
She writes serious (prize-winning) academic articles and lighter humorous pieces on African languages and is a popular speaker at conferences.
Having begun her study of Xhosa at the age of twenty-five, Tessa is living proof that an English-speaking South African adult can master an African language.
Senior lecturer in African languages at UCT’s School of Languages and Literature, Dr Tessa Dowling says people still get surprised by how she speaks isiXhosa fluently.
She believes it would make a huge difference if white people in South Africa would make an effort to learn more African languages.
I think that would show respect. It would make our knowledge system greater because the knowledge embedded in African languages is just not revealed. The creativity and the humour in the language sometimes just blow me away and I think if people learn those languages they would find in themselves different personalities.
Dowling says by learning other languages people could help stave off dementia.
Research has also shown that if you learn another language you are less likely to get dementia.
— Dr Tessa Dowling, Senior lecturer at UCT’s School of Languages and Literature
Dr Tessa Dowling – Diversity Language special skill is her ability to teach delegates the basics of the language in 45 minutes. Yes, 45 minutes! Not only educational, this talk is motivational and indeed, a perfect accompaniment to any team building function.
Contact us at Speakers Inc and follow us on Facebook
Darren Whackhead Simpson has become one of South Africa’s most celebrated stand-up comedians, leaving audiences in stitches with his sharp wit, impeccable timing, and relatable humor. For over two decades, Darren has consistently filled venues across the country with his live performances, captivating audiences from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Known for his ability to connect […]
Joey Rasdien is absurd yet thought-provoking stand-up comedy show tackles the touchy subject of evolution and how natural selection has blessed many of the figures that loom over South African life. Topics under scrutiny range from the devil and Charles Darwin to Julius Malema and Steven Hawking in a show that will make you laugh […]
After having successfully proved her talent, Zonke qualifies to be called a professional artist. Her name is nothing unknown in the music scene; she has breathed life into many songs over the years on albums by the likes of Thebe, the late TK, Loyiso, Skizo and Mafikizolo. She has on top of that contributed to […]
Nicci Robertson is a renowned South African speaker and wellness consultant who has dedicated her career to helping organizations foster healthier, happier, and more productive work environments. Specializing in staff wellness, work-life balance strategies, executive wellness coaching, and stress management, Nicci has become a trusted advisor to companies seeking to enhance employee well-being and optimize […]
Watershed, one of the most successful and well-loved bands ever to come out of South Africa, will be celebrating 20 years in 2020. This multi-platinum selling band have released 6 studio albums so far, along with a greatest hits album during their 20 year career, as well as receiving 2 SAMA awards for best pop […]
With a voice that has become synonymous with South African rugby, Matthew Pearce stands as one of the most respected and recognizable rugby commentators in the country. Known for his passion, precision, and deep understanding of the game, Pearce’s storytelling brings the intensity of the Springbok experience to life. Whether calling play-by-play action or offering […]
These remain the property of its owner and are not affiliated with or endorsed by Speakers Inc.
All talent fees exclude VAT, travel and accommodation where required.
Our Mission
Our Mission:
© All rights reserved 2025. Designed using Voxel
