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 […]
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
In order to view the below you must be logged in.
Lorna Mlonzi is a visionary leader and the Founder and CEO of Sky Internet SA (Pty) Ltd, an innovative Internet Service Provider start-up committed to bridging the digital divide. With a profound mission to transform the lives of individuals in townships, lower income areas, and rural areas, Lorna established Sky Internet SA to make a […]
DJ Luis is arguably the foremost function DJ in South Africa. He has built himself a reputation as a highly regarded professional in the way he deals with his clients and most importantly, his audiences on the dance floor. Over the past 10 years, he has been booked 7 days a week, with venues such as Avianto, […]
Leanne Manas is a household name in South African broadcasting, renowned for her role as the anchor of Morning Live, the South African Broadcasting Corporation’s flagship morning show. With a career that spans over two decades, she has garnered widespread respect for her eloquence, professionalism, and unflappable demeanor in front of the camera. Her ability […]
Kirsten Landman is a trailblazing force in the world of professional off-road and hard-enduro riding, hailing from the vibrant province of Kwa-Zulu Natal, South Africa. From the tender age of 8, Landman ignited her passion for riding, a spark that would fuel her journey to become a pioneering figure in her sport. Embarking on her […]
Candice Mama is a beacon of inspiration, resilience, and compassion, recognized globally for her remarkable journey and impactful contributions. Her indomitable spirit has earned her a place among Vogue Magazine’s esteemed list of the top 33 most inspiring women in the world, standing shoulder to shoulder with icons such as Nicole Kidman, Michelle Obama, and […]
Rob Caskie shares his Stories of human trials and triumphs never go out of vogue, and mesmerising storyteller extraordinaire, with his walking stick and trademark shorts, brings them alive like no other.
Francis Herd stands as a beacon of trust and credibility in the realm of broadcast journalism, commanding attention as a familiar face on the nightly news. With nearly two decades of immersive experience in the dynamic field of broadcasting, she has carved an indelible mark on South Africa’s media landscape. As the co-anchor of the […]
Mpho Popps Modikoane is a remarkable South African comedian who is best known to TV viewers for being one of the superstars to compete in the sixth edition of the SABC3 reality dancing competition Strictly Come Dancing, in 2013. Popps initially got noticed on the SABC1 competition So You Think You’re Funny! in 2009 before […]
No results available
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