At 36, Loyiso Bala stood at a crossroads – stay in his comfort zone or risk everything to build a new future. Nearly a decade later, his journey from musician to MBA graduate and media executive has gone viral, inspiring thousands to chase their dreams, no matter their age.
Johannesburg, South Africa (03 February 2025) – Loyiso Bala has always been a powerhouse in the South African music industry but his latest achievement has nothing to do with hit singles or sold-out performances. Instead, it’s a celebration of perseverance, reinvention and the courage to start over.
His heartfelt Facebook post about his journey to obtaining an MBA has taken social media by storm, inspiring thousands and proving that it’s never too late to chase your dreams.
The post, which has already amassed over 22,000 likes and thousands of shares and comments, tells the remarkable story of how, at 36, Loyiso realised he needed to make a drastic change. Despite a successful music career, he saw the writing on the wall—without a degree or corporate experience, his future felt uncertain. But instead of accepting that fate, he took a leap of faith.
“I walked into HenleyAfrica, hoping to start from scratch,” he wrote.
“A friend suggested I apply for Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL), which allowed my experience to count towards a Postgraduate Diploma in Business. That application was terrifying. Getting accepted was even scarier. I sat in my first class, completely out of my depth, Googling terms like ‘HR’ and ‘balance sheets’ because I was too embarrassed to ask.”
But he didn’t quit. He kept going. He graduated. And then he set his sights on something even bigger—an MBA. Through hard work, sleepless nights, and sheer determination, he not only earned his qualification but secured a leadership position in broadcasting. From volunteering at TBN Africa to becoming the Channel Director and later joining SABC to lead some of the country’s biggest radio stations, Loyiso’s story is one of transformation and triumph.
His message has resonated deeply with people from all walks of life. Comments flooded in, with many sharing how his journey has inspired them:
“I am so proud of you. What an incredible testimony of faith and tenacity. Those who look at the sun don’t see the shadows.”
“Very inspiring. Thank you for sharing!”
“It’s never too late indeed and never a perfect time… at the age of 33 I finally decided to pursue my degree. This is definitely the inspiration I need. Congratulations to you, bhuti.”
“I am inspired to step out of my comfort zone and go for my dreams, just like you did! Congratulations are in order for you, my brother.”
Loyiso’s journey is a powerful reminder that growth begins on the other side of fear. It’s proof that no matter where you are in life, reinvention is always possible.
And as he puts it so beautifully, “Your past does not define your future.”
So, if you’ve been waiting for the “perfect time” to start something new, take a page from Loyiso’s book – be bold, take the leap and trust that incredible things are waiting on the other side.
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