Joshuan du Toit, a 20-year-old second-year medical student at the University of Pretoria (UP), recently put his general knowledge to the test on the quiz show Wie Word ’n Miljoenêr? (the Afrikaans version of Who Wants to Be a Millionaire?), and walked away with an impressive R125 000 in prize money after becoming the biggest winner so far in the current season.

Competing against five other contestants, Du Toit impressed audiences with his calm demeanour and shared personal insights about life as a medical student and raising a guide dog.

"It was slightly intimidating at first, but I believed that I could compete with the more experienced participants," he said. "I put no pressure on myself – I just wanted to enjoy the experience."

A long-time fan of both the British and South African versions of the show, he described the thrill of finally being in the hot seat: "It was awesome to experience the real deal. The environment is friendly, but when you compete in Fastest Fingers, you realise that you’re up against the other contestants."

The most challenging moment was "definitely question 13, about Mr Greenwood”, he says – a question about which member of The Beatles once stayed at Cape Town’s Mount Nelson hotel under the name “Mr Greenwood” [it was John Lennon].

“I had absolutely no clue, neither did Rian [the host] or my uncle!" Du Toit said. Realising his helplines were as clueless as he was, he opted to take his winnings rather than risk a guess.

His journey to Wie Word ’n Miljoenêr? started long before stepping onto the set. "The beauty of general knowledge is that you can’t prepare for it. It’s an accumulation of stories, facts, books, shows, the news – you name it. My grandpa encouraged me to sign up ever since the first season aired, so when I got the opportunity I was eager to enter."

Du Toit credits deep breathing and perspective for his success in remaining composed under pressure. "Being on the show, let alone in the hot seat… is a huge privilege. I just tried to stay collected and not get tunnel vision about what could happen. Everything from getting into the show was a bonus."

One of the standout moments came when he used the show’s 50/50 lifeline to answer a question about South America’s geography. “I was trying to visualise the map I’ve seen so many times,” he said.

Balancing his demanding medical studies with quiz show appearances requires discipline, and he believes the key is balance. "Being in residence, you have to learn to prioritise and manage your time exceptionally well," he said. "Study when you must, but also take meaningful breaks to refresh. It helps you stay focused and ready to study again."

In addition to his academic pursuits, his family raised a guide dog named Odie during the height of the COVID-19 lockdown. "We got Odie during the lockdown, and it was amazing to see him grow and mature into a guide dog," he said. "We taught him obedience and basic skills through classes hosted by the Guide Dogs Association. Letting him go was a sad day, but we knew he would make a big difference in someone’s life."

Raising Odie was a family project, and for Du Toit it was very meaningful. "We wanted to do something that would change someone’s life, and this was the perfect opportunity. My family played a big part in his ‘education,’ and I helped out where I could. It was never a chore to raise him – if anything, it was a great way to take a break from studying."

Looking ahead, he is committed to completing his medical degree, but remains open to future quiz shows or competitions. "For the next four years, medicine is the priority," he said. "But I will definitely participate in any competitions that come my way."

His advice to fellow students is simple: "Don’t let any opportunity pass you by. When you commit to something, you’ll learn how to manage your time to accommodate it alongside your studies. The degree is a priority, but also focus on what makes you tick and what helps you grow as a person."

Du Toit’s journey on Wie Word ’n Miljoenêr? highlights his wide-ranging interests and determination to excel both academically and personally. As he continues his studies at UP, his story inspires others to embrace opportunities and strive for balance in all aspects of life.