14 April 2025 | Story: Maswoba Raludzingana | Photo: Sifiso Nomzaza.
3 minutes read time.
On 12 April 2025, the atmosphere at the Vaal University of Technology (VUT) was filled with pride and celebration as the Autumn Graduation Ceremony took place at the Great Desmond Tutu Hall.
Among the proud graduates was Mr Unarine Mutheiwana, widely known in the music industry as JR Player. He is a dynamic and passionate artist from Thohoyandou, Tshikhudini village in Limpopo Province. He had just completed his Bachelor of Education in Senior Phase and Further Education and Training (FET), marking a significant milestone in a journey defined by resilience, faith, and a deep love for music.
As the youngest in his family, JR Player’s story is not only one of academic achievement, but also of creative passion and steadfast perseverance. Before arriving at VUT, he had initially enrolled at the University of Venda, but things did not go as planned. “I could not make it,” Mr Mutheiwana admits, “but I refused to give up.” While many would have abandoned their dreams, for JR Player it was merely a detour on a path he believes was divinely inspired.
“I was born for music,” he says with a smile. His musical journey began in childhood, singing in the choir where his voice first found an audience. A natural performer, JR Player knew early on that music was more than just a hobby. It was a calling. Balancing that calling with education, however, was no easy feat.
“It was not simple,” he reflects. “During weekends, I would travel home to attend events and perform, then return and prepare for exams.” The constant shift between stage lights and late-night studies was demanding, but JR Player remained committed, driven by what he describes as the grace of God.
His love for people, teaching, and public speaking naturally steered him towards a career in education. “I love addressing people; I love standing in front of people. That is why I pursued this degree,” he explains. For him, education is not merely a profession; it is another platform for performance, another stage where he can inspire and uplift others.
Now a graduate, JR Player stands as a beacon of hope and encouragement for both students and artists. His message to those following in his footsteps is simple yet powerful: “Just do it.” Borrowing the iconic Nike slogan as a personal mantra, he uses it to inspire himself and empower others. “Never give up on your dreams,” he says. “Keep on pushing until you make it.”
JR Player is living proof that it is possible to chase two dreams at once – from the modest streets of Tshikhudini to the graduation halls of VUT, and the musical stages where his voice continues to echo. With passion and purpose guiding his steps, he continues to sing, teach, and inspire – one note and one lesson at a time.
