Jonathan Masakona (31), better known by his stage name of ‘Mac J Macfam’, is clearly not just the average South African musician but one whose talents, coupled with hard work, had carved a name for him in the music industry.

The star of Israel Malatje (24), better known in music circles as Mr Mj Muimbi, seems to be shining even brighter as he continues to release more hit songs. He tells his fans that, as of 2022, he will be working on the kind of music that will stay on listeners’ minds, even long after listening to the actual songs.

Dendele Ndwakhulu Edwin Ramabulana from Songozwi Musanda outside Louis Trichardt has just released an eight-track album called Dzhiani Dzembe, with songs such as Africa Unite, Prayer to Oluwa, Pula ya Botswana, and Ndo wela Mativhani.

No matter what the odds - in the end, love always conquers. At least, this is the conviction of Tiyiselani Bevhula (36), author of the novel Trapped in Love and Trash.

Azwindini Lutendo Masuwa is bubbling with excitement and joy after receiving a literature award for his debut financial book, Unshakable.

Tshifularo “Predicate” Fhulufhedzani (19) from Tshivhulani village in the Thulamela area is quickly climbing the music ladder with his new tracks that are becoming more popular in music circles.

Phuluso Dave Netshavhakololo (known in music circles as ‘Thidziambi De Poet’) who hails from Tshaulu Khunguni village in Thengwe, released his latest poetry album, Vhuhwi hanga.

Vhahangwele Aryan Ndou (23), better known as Lady Vee, has the gift of producing an authentic, unique sound through her music that will surely take her even further in her career.

Tshimangadzo Tshishivheli, popularly known as Exit Munyai, is a multitalented artist. Not only is he a profound rapper, but he is also a filmmaker, photographer and actor. He believes that multitasking is the recipe for success, if one does it with enough energy, zeal and focus.

Phathutshedzo Netshivhulana (23) from Tshaulu village outside Thohoyandou is convinced that her book, Pfuramathupho, has made a valuable contribution in helping victims of gender-based violence to speak out.

Sharon Mashaba (24), who fell in love with writing at the age of 10, has now published her debut motivational book, titled Life Without Limitations.

Avhapfani “Radical Dread” Sadiki won the Best Reggae Artist Award at the South African Upcoming Musicians Awards (SAUMA), held at the Johannesburg Theatre on Saturday (11 December).

Local R&B singer Phathutshedzo “Mickeyblack” Munyadziwa (20) has just released her first EP, called 10-07-2021. The EP is a musical tribute to her beloved late mother, and mother figures everywhere for their dedication, love and care for their children.

Masingita Shibambu, better known to the thousands of her fans as Ntombhi Ya Mutsonga, is still doing the happy jig after she won the Best Traditional Praise Singer of the Year award during the South African Traditional Music Awards 2021. The event was held at the Premier Hotel The Winkler in Mbombela, Mpumalanga, on 27 November.

After four long years of hard work, growth, and invention of new sounds, the “King of VenRap”, Mizo Phyll, finally released his latest much-anticipated album, called Now & Then.