Lhente-Mari Pitout

Artistic Director

Lhente-Mari Pitout is an acclaimed South African conductor, educator, and choral clinician. She has led the UP Youth Choir since 2005 and also conducts the award-winning Pretoria Boys High School Choir and St Mary’s Singers. Internationally recognized, she has toured with the World Youth Choir, worked with renowned conductors, and served as a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador. A passionate advocate for youth development, she co-founded the South African Youth Music and Arts Development Foundation.

Conductor

Herman Swanepoel has been part of the UP Youth Choir community for over 12 years, evolving from singer to Assistant Conductor since 2009. A passionate music educator and arranger, he currently conducts six choirs known for his acclaimed African music arrangements performed internationally. Herman is dedicated to youth development through music, organizing workshops and masterclasses that inspire and empower the next generation of musicians.

Financial Manager

Sophia Booysen is a passionate advocate for youth development through music. Through her work with UPYC, she has seen young singers grow into confident individuals, gaining both musical and life skills. Sophia supports community-driven initiatives like UPYC’s beaded product project, which empowers local artists and connects diverse communities. Her mission: changing the world, one voice at a time.

Manager & Graphic Designer

Herman Piek joined UPYC as a singer in 2016, touring internationally and building lasting memories through music. In 2019, he transitioned into a management internship, ensuring new members had the same enriching experiences he did. Now serving as Manager and Graphic Designer, Herman continues to give back to the choir that shaped his personal and professional journey.

Social Media Liaison

Ontiretse Magadzi (also known as Onti) is a film student, content creator, and the current Social Media Manager for UPYC. A member since 2021, Onti quickly found a home in the choir, eventually serving as deputy head boy and later leading its digital presence. His creative energy and consistency have grown UPYC’s online platforms, helping to share its message with the world—one voice at a time.