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THE MET GALA FOR MATRICULANTS 2025
- Santiago Andrew
- 5 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 4 days ago
Share your MET Gala 2025 moments on Instagram/TikTok! Tag @TheMatricMETgala and use #TheMetGalaForMatrics
The MET Gala for Matriculants (formerly The Matric Ball) wasn’t simply an event, it was a statement, a cultural reset, and a moment in history crafted for South Africa’s rising generation. It marked a night where young people from all over South Africa stepped fully, confidently, and unapologetically into their brilliance. A night where the red carpet became a runway of identity, pride, culture, and self-expression, proving once again that the youth of South Africa are not waiting for permission to shine, they already are.
The 2025 edition showed us something undeniable: when South African youth show
up, they do it with intention, grace, and fashion that rivals global stages. From the
couture-inspired ensembles to the dramatic, Vogue-worthy entrances, the
atmosphere buzzed with excitement, purpose, and creative energy. This wasn’t just
a celebration of finishing school; it was a celebration of resilience, character, and the
courage it takes to be young in today’s South Africa. “When I started this event, I
wanted more than a celebration, I wanted a statement. A moment that tells
every matriculant: you are worthy, you belong in spaces, and if not, you make
your own, and your hard work deserves recognition. Gala’s like these prove
exactly that,” says Founder Santiago Andrew
On the 4th of December, the red carpet at the @Sandton Hotel transformed into a
beacon of excellence as matriculants stepped into their moment. Walking alongside
them were the likes of Christall K from The Real Housewives of Johannesburg,
Doqtor Cabbage, Girlie Lukhule, and the internationally acclaimed Musa Motha. In a
heartfelt surprise, Tuesday Le Roux appeared virtually to share her message of
hope, reminding matriculants that the world expands for those who dare to believe in
themselves.
This year, that impact was felt even more profoundly through the ten learners who
were fully sponsored to attend, high-achieving academic performers who otherwise
would not have had the chance to experience a night like this. One of these learners,
Nthabiseng Sethe, shared her story.
“Imagine waking up on a random Tuesday to an invitation to a ball you’ve only ever
seen on Articles. As a matriculant who couldn’t afford to attend my own school’s
matric dance. I found out it was THE MET Gala For Matrics, the only youth event in
Africa that truly recognises the best of the best matriculants from across the country.
At first, I didn’t consider going. I had no hopes of showing up and turning heads. But
Ruby Kanavathly from Princess Project Midrand, in partnership with The MET Gala
for Matriculants, had other plans. A dress? Sorted. Shoes? Sorted. A car? They simply asked, ‘What colour would you like?’
This event was more than a celebration; it reminded me that I am someone, and that
my efforts are worth honouring. It taught me that if I continue to set myself apart, I
can go to far greater places. Who knows… maybe next year’s ball, we’ll be the
tycoons invited as special guests.”
These amazing matriculants were treated to an immersive experience that blended
luxury, culture, and youth excellence. Every detail, from the entrance sequence to
the performances, dinner service, and crowning moments, was designed to honour
these matriculants who, despite the odds stacked against them, still pioneered.
Many attendees described the event as “a night where I felt like I mattered,” “the first
time I felt celebrated for being me,” and “the perfect ending to the hardest year of my
life.” These lived experiences are what define the legacy of the MET Gala.
As the night drew to a close, one message echoed clearly: the future of South Africa
is bright, bold, and unstoppable. And the MET Gala for Matriculants will continue to
be the stage where that brilliance is honoured, celebrated, and elevated.