When Thapelo Molomo’s colleagues from the SAPS first saw his Idols SA audition tape, they were in awe as he’d never revealed his singing talent, but now that they know, he's got their full support.
The 29-year-old singer, who has three years' experience working in the wellness division as a psychologist at SAPS, is now in the top 7 in the competition, and wants to make his colleagues proud, as well as his 3-month-old daughter.
“I didn't park my career at SAPS, I am still in the organisation and through their support, am here in Idols to pursue music as my first love.
“It is such an honour to receive love and support from my colleagues and also for them to put my picture on a national page is humbling, and it reminds me it was not by mistake [I became] a member of SAPS. It is a blessing for me, and I will continue to be a proud member— we are a supportive organisation, we don't shut doors to those who have gifts beyond their work.”
#sapsHQ [MEET OUR MEMBERS] WO Thapelo Molomo takes his singing talent to the #IdolsSA stage. WO Molomo, who is a psychologist at #SAPS EHW in Brits, North West, has made it through to the Top 7. SAPS wishes Thapelo best of luck on his Idols SA journey. MEhttps://t.co/PqHhfRiwCF pic.twitter.com/ab5zp743UW
— SA Police Service 🇿🇦 (@SAPoliceService) October 5, 2022
Molomo is on leave to pursue his music career but says if he wins, he doesn't envisage leaving the force as he had a calling to be a police officer as well as singing.
“If I win, I'm absolutely not willing to [quit the police]. I pride myself with SAPS and with so much support it makes it easier for me to multitask [working at] SAPS and full time in music ... both are my callings.”
Speaking about his performance in the competition, Thapelo admits that while he did not anticipate coming this far, his life is a testament to what God can do.
“I am truly humbled and it encourages me. Idols has become a door breaker for me to show the world what God kept in me. I didn't think I would get this far but I had to tell myself to work hard and [keep my faith]... then nothing would hinder me to get to the top.”
It's his first time on a big stage where millions of people tune in to watch the show live every Sunday on TV, but it's something he's been preparing for his whole life.
“I meditate before going on stage. Nerves are there but that's just a normal response.
“When I'm given material to work on I put all my effort in it. I don't take an opportunity for granted, I make use of it wholeheartedly and take judges' criticism positively.”
