Viral Afrikaans boy tries reading difficult English song lyrics

After gaining attention for his attempts to pronounce challenging English words, 15-year-old Evan Jonk from Germiston participated in a segment on Breakfast with Martin Bester. During the episode, he was challenged to read complicated English song lyrics.

Jonk, who shared insights about his life and interests, is noted for his humorous personality. In a recent TikTok video, he attempted to correctly pronounce difficult English terms, including “Worcestershire sauce,” “anemone,” and “onomatopoeia.” In the video, he stated, “A lot of my friends say that when I speak English, you can hear the Afrikaans accent, but you know what, I’m going to prove you wrong,” aiming to adopt the mindset of an “extinguished English gentleman.” His efforts were well-received, generating laughter among viewers.

Jonk’s content showcases a notable Afrikaans-English accent, which many associate with South African identity in media. The humorous outcome of his video has resonated with audiences both locally and abroad.

Why it matters:

• This trend highlights the cultural significance of language and accents, as they reflect identity and diversity in South Africa.
• Businesses targeting a younger demographic may find opportunities in leveraging social media trends for engagement.