EDITORIAL
We proudly present the 2024 DRUM top 50 women, in collaboration with our esteemed partner SOLAL®. This month, as we celebrate womanhood, we also pay tribute to the trailblazers, innovators, and compassionate leaders among us. These are the women who not only shape industries but also nurture the communities that sustain us.
Our theme for this year, Mbokodo – the rock – resonates deeply with the strength and resilience that these women embody. In the spirit of Women’s Month, we salute these remarkable individuals who carve out paths and light the way for others. This is more than a celebration; it is a recognition of the profound impact they have on our economy and society.
The 2024 DRUM top 50 features a diverse group of women, from captains of industry to visionary entrepreneurs and philanthropic heroes who dedicate their lives to uplifting others. Among them, you will find familiar faces whose achievements have already gained public admiration. However, we are also thrilled to introduce some lesser-known yet equally incredible women whose stories are sure to inspire and surprise you.
Each profile in this collection tells a unique story of courage, innovation, and persistence. These narratives are not just accounts of personal achievement but are testaments to the collective power of women in Mzansi. They educate, inspire, and often spark the flame of new ideas. Through their journeys, we gain insights into how women continue to support, drive, and transform our economy in significant ways.
We also take a moment to reflect on the challenges that still exist in achieving gender equality and the continued efforts required to create inclusive environments. It is a call to action for all of us to support and empower the women around us, in our workplaces, communities, and homes.
We extend a heartfelt thank you to SOLAL®, our partner in this endeavour, who shares our commitment to women’s empowerment. Its support has been instrumental in bringing this project to life, and its dedication to fostering an environment where women can thrive is truly commendable. Thank you for joining us in this celebration. We are immensely proud of this project and deeply grateful for the opportunity to share these powerful narratives with you.
May they serve as a source of inspiration and a reminder of the incredible potential that women hold to shape a better world.
The DRUM team
DRUM WOMEN POWER LIST
Ethel Kuuya
Ethel Kuuya
Shaping the future of transformation in Africa
Ethel Kuuya is a name synonymous with visionary leadership and transformative thinking. Just sitting across from her in an affluent cafe in Hyde Park already gives DRUM the air of her professional flair and strong presence. Do not just take our word for it, though.
Impressive portfolio
Ethel Kuuya is the founder and CEO of Advisory Kulture, a premier consulting firm dedicated to delivering robust advisory services across Africa, established in 2014. She is also a renowned author, recognised as a UNESCO inclusive policy lab expert, has contributed to forums at the Chatham House Royal Institute for International Affairs, and served as a member of the UN Women Civil Advisory Group.
The MediaShop MD Dashni Vilakazi on four decades of impactful work
Dashni Vilakazi, with nearly four decades of experience in the media and marketing industries, recently returned from Cannes, France, where she was a member of an esteemed panel of judges for advertising media entries.
Despite her impressive CV, Dashni ensures that she balances her professional life with personal interests to unwind, one of which is travelling.
Dashni Vilakazi
Dashni Vilakazi
Dr Phophi Ramathuba
Dr Phophi Ramathuba
A new era for Limpopo: Premier Dr Phophi Ramathuba outlines her vision for prosperity and growth
From humble beginnings as a young girl inspired by her aunt’s nursing uniform to her rise as a medical doctor, activist, and politician, Dr Phophi Ramathuba’s journey is a testament to her dedication and passion for public service. As the first woman to hold the position of premier in Limpopo, she is determined to transform the region into a hub of prosperity and growth, prioritising job creation, industrialisation, and inclusive economic development.
Making history
Whenever she saw her aunt dressed in a pristine white nursing uniform, reminiscent of Florence Nightingale, Dr Ramathuba was filled with envy – not just because of the elegance of the uniform, but also because of her aunt’s evident passion for her work. This early exposure was more than mere admiration; it was the universe hinting at her future in public service, shaping her path to becoming a medical doctor turned politician.
Lack of sleep and its impact on health
In a fast-paced world, where time is a precious commodity, sleep often takes a back seat in our priorities. However, the consequences of neglecting sleep can be severe, affecting not only our immediate well-being but also contributing to long-term health risks. Let's delve into the statistics and explore the intricate relationship between insufficient sleep and its impact on various aspects of our health.
Sleep statistics
According to the Philips Global Sleep Survey (2019), a staggering 62% of adults worldwide report not sleeping as well as they'd like. As many as 67% experience sleep disturbances at least once every night, highlighting the pervasive nature of sleep issues. Perhaps most concerning is the fact that 44% of adults globally feel that the quality of their sleep has worsened over the past five years.
Experts recommend that adults aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night for optimal health. However, the data reveals that South Africans, on average, get around 6 hours of sleep each night, making it crucial to address this sleep deficit for the sake of their well-being.
Impact on Brain Function
Inadequate sleep directly influences cognitive function. Glycine, an amino acid found in Solal Sleep Naturally, plays a crucial role in memory consolidation. The brain relies on the restorative process of sleep to enhance learning, problem-solving, and decision-making skills. Persistent sleep deprivation can impair these functions, leading to decreased productivity and increased risk of accidents. This is especially important when you have an important meeting or presentation the next day and can't sleep but don't want to feel foggy all day.
Immunity and Hormone Balance
Solal Sleep Naturally, with its blend of Theanine and Magnesium, not only promotes relaxation but also aids in maintaining a healthy immune system and hormone balance. Sleep is a time when the body repairs and strengthens its immune defenses. Chronic sleep deprivation weakens the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections. Furthermore, hormones that regulate stress and growth are intricately tied to sleep patterns. Sleep disruptions can lead to imbalances, contributing to conditions such as mood disorders.
Heart Health
The impact of insufficient sleep on heart health is significant. Theanine, known for its anti-anxiety effects, combined with the muscle-relaxing properties of Magnesium, contributes to Solal Sleep Naturally's ability to support heart health. Insufficient sleep is associated with an increased risk of hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing rest.
In conclusion, the consequences of insufficient sleep extend far beyond feeling tired during the day. They impact every aspect of our health, affecting our brains, immune systems, hormones, and heart. Recognizing the importance of quality sleep and adopting holistic solutions, such as Solal Sleep Naturally, can be a transformative step toward overall well-being. Remember, investing in your sleep is an investment in your long-term health.
Liz Letsoalo’s journey from kitchen experiments to prominent retail shelves
With her sleeves rolled up, Liz Letsoalo blends her organic oils. Stepping away from her 9-5 job, creating beauty products in her kitchen soon became a journey that transformed her life and the beauty routines of countless others.
In the heart of Limpopo, in a small village in Tzaneen, Liz’s story began amid humble beginnings. The youngest of five children, she was a vibrant and ambitious young girl, often seen dancing, singing, and excelling academically. Her early environment might have been modest, but her dreams were boundless. “I was fascinated by the sciences, a curiosity nurtured at an agricultural school where I could only choose between agriculture and physical sciences. I chose the latter, laying the foundation for my future. This path eventually led me to the University of Pretoria, where I pursued a degree in industrial engineering,” she shares.
Liz Letsoalo
Liz Letsoalo
Basetsana Kumalo
Basetsana Kumalo
‘Embrace failure on your way up’ – Basetsana Kumalo
Depending on how old you are, you may remember her as the young Gauteng woman who made black and brown girls believe they could be pageant queens, too.
In 1994, Basetsana Kumalo – then Makgalemele – became the first black Miss South Africa in the new political dispensation. She walked so that women like Zozibini Tunzi and Shudufhadzo Musida could run. She is one half of one of South Africa’s favourite couples, married to media and telecommunications mogul Romeo Kumalo. Since her Miss SA days, Basetsana went on to be a formidable businesswoman and carved out her path in the entertainment industry.
The rise of a beauty empire
For many people, a career in accounting symbolises stability and success. Yet Mathebe Molise, once a promising young accountant, felt a pull towards the uncharted territories of entrepreneurship. Her journey from Soweto to the helm of South Africa’s beauty industry is a testament to her determination and commitment to empowering black women, a demographic often overlooked in beauty.
The turning point
Born in Soweto, Mathebe Molise’s upbringing was steeped in a culture of progress and tradition. During Women’s Month, she shared her story with DRUM, reminiscing about her childhood in Rockville, surrounded by the township’s hustle and cultural vibrancy. Her parents were instrumental in her development – her father, a math genius, and her mother, a beacon of encouragement.
Mathebe Molise
Mathebe Molise
Marienkie Setlhalogile
Marienkie Setlhalogile
“I started with what I had” – cattle farmer Marienkie Setlhalogile
It is often said the best way to do something is to start, and Marienkie Setlhalogile could not agree more after her passion led her to cattle farming. She envisioned a life in khaki shorts and farm boots.
The 27-year-old emerging farmer tells DRUM how her journey in farming started. “I knew I wanted to get into farming when I realised that not a lot of women are into farming. This was a great way to challenge myself while also doing something I was starting to love at the time.” The Limpopo-born entrepreneur visited her father-in-law’s farm pre-Covid-19, and her interest in farming took over. Now, a day in her life includes walking around the kraal to inspect cow dung, which indicates the digestion of the animals.
How Ashwagandha can transform your stress response
Discover the natural way to conquer stress and boost your well-being with Ashwagandha
Headaches, a racing heart, a tight stomach, sweating -- stress is something we all know well, whether it’s from work, family, or just the daily hustle. But feeling this way too often can have a negative impact on our health. Finding ways to manage stress is important for our well-being, and that’s where Ashwagandha comes into play.
What is Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha, also known as Withania somnifera, is a natural herb that helps your body handle stress better. It’s known as an adaptogen, which means it helps your body adapt to stress and find balance. Instead of just covering up stress symptoms, adaptogens like Ashwagandha work with your body to tackle stress at its source.
How does Ashwagandha work?
Ashwagandha works by regulating cortisol, the hormone your body releases when you’re stressed. If cortisol levels stay high for too long, it can lead to issues like anxiety, depression and weight gain. By keeping cortisol levels in check, Ashwagandha helps manage stress and reduces these negative effects.
How does Ashwagandha benefit you?
It reduces anxiety and promotes calm
Ashwagandha is great for easing anxiety and helping you feel more relaxed. According to Healthline, it works by balancing different stress factors in your body and controlling stress-related proteins and hormones, like cortisol. It also calms down the system in your body that controls how you respond to stress, making it easier for you to feel relaxed and at ease.
It improves your mood
If you’re looking to boost your mood, Ashwagandha can help with that, too. It influences dopamine levels in your brain, which is the chemical linked to feelings of happiness and reward. By balancing dopamine, Ashwagandha can lift your mood and enhance your overall sense of well-being.
It supports cognitive function
Stress can disrupt your memory, focus and decision-making. Ashwagandha helps protect your brain cells from stress, so you can think more clearly and stay on top of things, even when life gets hectic.
How do you take Ashwagandha?
Ashwagandha comes in different forms, like capsules, powders and teas. SOLAL's Ashwagandha Extract is in capsule form, which makes it super easy to add to your daily routine. Just stick to the dosage on the label or check with your healthcare provider for personalised advice.
Adding Ashwagandha to your routine could make a big difference in how you handle stress, helping you feel calmer and more balanced. It can reduce anxiety, boost your mood and support your brain function. Give it a go and see how it works for you!
Samukelisiwe Khanyile’s Qhawekazi Style Collection revives regality of modern South African fashion
Samukelisiwe Khanyile has become a beacon in KwaZulu-Natal’s inclusive fashion scene. South African women are all too familiar with the challenge of finding the perfect pair of trousers or a dress that not only fits well, but also remains stylish and professional. Samukelisiwe’s fashion line, Qhawekazi Style Collection, has been a game-changer in this regard.
The beginning
Born and bred in Bergville, KwaZulu-Natal, Samukelisiwe started her clothing brand in July 2017 when she found it challenging to find the right clothes for her body. “I am a short and heavy, typical African woman, so my body is pear-shaped. The standard sizes available in retail did not accommodate our body type as African women. So, the lack of availability sparked the interest to start looking where I could source garments that would be suitable for my body type,” she tells DRUM.
Samukelisiwe Khanyile
Samukelisiwe Khanyile
Nozipho Tshabalala
Nozipho Tshabalala
From Graça Machel to Melinda Gates: In conversation with Nozipho Tshabalala
When faced with the challenging question of identifying her most influential and memorable conversations, Nozipho Tshabalala reflects on the content, emotional resonance, and lessons learnt. Her deep appreciation for the impact of influential women throughout history has fuelled her journey.
From the grace and poise of Her Excellency Graça Machel to the intentionality and power embodied by Melinda Gates, Nozipho, as a conversation strategist, has engaged with world leaders and luminaries, guiding conversations that challenge the norms and push boundaries.
Mrs Mops reflects on her journey and ventures into entrepreneurship
Mpumi Mophatlane, affectionately known as Mrs Mops, has become a household name through her appearances on popular shows like The Mommy Club and The Real Housewives of Johannesburg. Her unapologetic wit and sassy charm have endeared her to a wide audience, making her a stand-out personality in the reality TV landscape.
Road to stardom
Her journey to stardom began in the humble setting of Tsakane, a place she was determined not to remain confined to. “As I watched life unfold around me, I knew I wanted more. I could not bear the thought of a life spent within the same boundaries where I was born,” Mrs Mops recalls. This realisation fuelled her ambition to pursue higher education and a career beyond her neighbourhood’s borders.
Mpumi Mophatlane
Mpumi Mophatlane
Sonto Pooe
Sonto Pooe
From quantity surveyor to building a beauty empire
Initially, she embarked on a career in quantity surveying, a field that was both exciting and pioneering for women at the time. However, a persistent inner voice nudged her towards a different path, one that resonated deeply with her lifelong passion for hair care. Sonto Pooe, the founder of Native Child, shares with DRUM her journey of building her hair care empire.
A calling
“Hair is a calling I have been passionate about since I was a little girl. Like many people, I initially followed a career path that was exciting and new for women, but something bigger kept calling.Ultimately, Idecided to follow my inner voice,” says Sonto.
Thami Nkadimeng: Crafting messages with purpose
In her 2022 TED Talk, Thami Nkadimeng delivered a poignant speech reflecting on her life, sharing how she overcame childhood challenges to achieve success.
Her story resonates with many people, especially those who refuse to let circumstances dictate their life’s course. During her memorable talk, she shared, “When I felt like I had nothing to hold on to, my imagination was the one constant. It pushed me to keep going.” Her constant visualisation of a desired future fuelled her determination, propelling her towards success.
Thami Nkadimeng
Thami Nkadimeng
Xolly Mncwango
Xolly Mncwango
‘The biggest failure is not trying’ – gospel sensation Xolly Mncwango reflects on her evolving journey
Her most defining lessons have come from rejection and failure, which have taught her that to become the best version of herself, she must accept that these experiences are part of life’s process that everyone goes through.
“I dislike failing; however, I have learnt that everything has its right timing. If I do not get it now, the right time will come for me to achieve it. It is better to fail while trying and fall forward. The biggest failure is not trying,” gospel star Xolly Mncwango says.
In 2020, during a tumultuous time when Covid-19 had the world on its toes, Xolly released her debut album, Jesus is Enough, after years with the iconic gospel choir Joyous Celebration.
Melanie Bala: A Journey rooted in truth, resilience, and radiance
Melanie Bala, a celebrated Metro FM broadcaster and passionate yogi, has become a beloved figure in the South African media, thanks to her authenticity, dedication, and unwavering commitment to kindness. Her journey, from a curious young girl in Tshwane to an influential voice in broadcasting, is both inspiring and instructive.
A childhood of curiosity and exploration
Melanie’s upbringing, surrounded by her parents and three siblings, laid the foundation for the woman she has become. She attended a multiracial private school during apartheid, an experience that exposed her to diverse perspectives and fostered her deep curiosity about people.
Melanie Bala
Melanie Bala
LULA
ODIBA
From shadowing radio legends to carving out her unique niche in the industry, Lula Odiba, born Keletso Bonolo Modiba, has emerged as a formidable force in South African media. Daughter to the late broadcasting icon Eddie Zondi...
NOZIBELE
QAMNGANA MAYABA
Sharing her story of discovering her HIV status has opened doors she never imagined were possible and what was meant to tear her apart has become the glory of her existence.
KASS
NAAIDOO
In the world of sports broadcasting, few names resonate with as much admiration and respect. This trailblazer has become an icon for women aspiring to make their mark in traditionally male-dominated fields.
STHANDIWE
KGOROGE
In 2024, when the whole world lives out the details of its lives online, people like Sthandiwe Kgoroge still live a somewhat private life, and she would not have it any other way. The award-winning actress talks to DRUM living what she describes as a “boring” life.
KHENSANI
NOBANDA
Even after 24 years of leading various marketing teams across the world to greatness, Khensani Nobanda is still very much in love with what she does. She dedicates her groundbreaking work to transformation and passing the baton to the next generation...
CONNIE
CHIUME
She needs no introduction as her body of work speaks for itself. The veteran actress died this week at Garden City Hospital in Johannesburg at the age of 72. Her family shared a statement stating she suffered a long illness and have asked for privacy during this time.
KHOSI
TWALA
She plans to break through the boundaries of success, no matter the cost. And even after a dark patch, Khosi Twala rose like a phoenix to international recognition and award-winning status. At the age of nine, she would confidently stand in her class and say she wanted to be a news presenter.
RATILE
MABITSELA
After being a basic girl from the township with big dreams and a clear vision, Ratile Mabitsela has risen to stardom and earned a seat at influential tables in the pageantry world. To reality show junkies, she’s best known as the pageant mommy.
ANDY
MAQONDWANA
Her voice, resonant and full of life, is a testament to the journey she’s embarked on – one that has seen her rise to the top of South African radio. When you listen to Andy Maqondwana on air, it’s hard to miss the vibrancy and passion that she brings to every broadcast.
TESSA
DOOMS
After growing up in Eldorado Park on the southern boundary of Soweto, Tessa Dooms knows very well that one dreams as far as what they are exposed to. Her earliest career aspiration was to become a fashion designer – a dream conceived by watching soapies on TV...
LINDA
MAQOMA
Linda Maqoma is a name that resonates with power, leadership, and resilience. As the founder and CEO of Nomatshawe Consulting Group, a business consulting company that provides strategic, operational, and financial solutions to clients across various sectors and industries...
ZOYA MABUTO-MOKODITOA
In the heart of Johannesburg, Zoya Mabuto-Mokoditoa has crafted a life story that epitomises resilience, transformation, and self-discovery. Her journey, marked by bold decisions and deep introspection, offers valuable lessons on embracing one’s true self, even when it means walking away...
CAROL
BOUWER
Former actress and TV presenter-come-global business powerhouse Carol Bouwer shares insights into the importance of believing in oneself. Do you remember when 8pm was still 8pm in South Africa? This was when the majority of the country sat in front of their TVs every night to watch Generations.
LISA
SEBOGODI
She had a thriving travel agency that brought in millions of rands each year. Suddenly, Covid-19 struck, and she had to retrench all 32 of her staff members. Section 189 kicked in and to make things worse, Lisa Sebogodi had to dip into her savings to ensure that everyone received their severance packages.
THANDIWE
NTSHINGA
Thandiwe Ntshinga successfully defined the meaning of turning lemon into lemonade when she decided to turn one of the backlashes she received from TikTok into a book deal. After all, it’s not every day that being called a black racist b*tch can make one a published author.
YVONNE
CHAKA CHAKA
It has been 40 years since Yvonne Chaka Chaka fell in love with a DJ. In the 80s and 90s, she played a pivotal role in popularising the bubble-gum disco music genre.
BABALWA
MBUKU
In the rural expanses of the Eastern Cape, where challenges like poverty, absenteeism, and school dropouts are rampant, Babalwa Mbuku stands as a beacon of hope and empowerment.
LALA
TUKU
Businesswoman Lala Tuku, who is also the head of local content at the SABC, says moving from being an actress and presenter to working behind the scenes has helped her change the narrative when it comes to telling stories of black people.
MAKGOTSO
MASINGI-ZONDO
Born into an environment where material wealth was scarce, Makgotso Masingi-Zondo’s journey from sleeping under a dining room table in a crowded home to becoming a successful career woman and executive life coach is an inspiring tale that highlights the power of dreaming big...
RELEBOGILE
MABOTJA
The mother of one says motherhood has taught her to prioritise what’s profoundly important and live in the moment. Media maven Relebogile Mabotja recently celebrated a milestone that marks her indelible impact on the South African media.
ZAMANTUNGWA KHUMALO
You can tell by engaging with Zamantungwa Khumalo that she embodies ambition and passion, qualities that oil one’s engine on their journey to success. Zamantungwa Khumalo was eloquent and confident during our conversation; so much so that it felt more like a catch-up session than an interview.
HAPPY
NGIDI
She was 20 years old when she got her first job as an intern, but being mentored by the late Zindzi Mandela channelled her hard work. Striding in at the Clico Boutique Hotel in Rosebank, Happy MaKhumalo Ngidi immediately paints the atmosphere pink.
KOLEKA
PUTUMA
Koleka Putuma’s journey into poetry was not a straight path, but rather a series of experiences that led her to discover the power of words. Growing up in a church environment, she was surrounded by storytelling, song, and the impactful use of language.
LINDIWE
MAZIBUKO
Lindiwe Mazibuko’s story began not in the political halls of Parliament but in a school choir. As a young girl, she sang across stages, enchanting people musically. “Music was my first language of expression. It was how I learnt to connect with people, influence, and inspire.”
DR NKULI
BOIKHUTSO
From an early age, Dr Nkuli Boikhutso’s path was illuminated by a deep passion for healthcare – a passion kindled by her own experiences as a child in hospitals.
NANDI
MADIDA
Throughout her career, Nandi Madida has consistently used her platform to empower women, urging them not to let the actions of men in positions of power derail their ambitions.
PHUMEZA
SHOBA
On Saturday nights, a shimmering beacon of talent and inspiration emerges on TikTok live, captivating audiences with a unique blend of music and unyielding spirit.
PLEASURE
PETA
Pleasure Peta, affectionately known as Pleasure Tsa Manyalo, became the voice shattering stereotypes and redefining the sound of Limpopo’s cultural heritage music, Tsa Manyalo.
KARABO
MOTSEPE
Construction is not just about hard hats and safety boots. It’s about vision, resilience, and the courage to break barriers in an industry traditionally dominated by men.
ANGELA
MAKHOLWA
Angela Makholwa knew she had a passion for writing long before she even understood what journalism was. At 14 years old, she declared her desire to write for a living, driven by a love for storytelling and the pursuit of truth.
MOLIEHI
MOLEKOA
In the fast-paced, instantaneous, and deadline-driven world we have come to know, Moliehi Molekoa, managing director (MD) of reputation management agency Magna Carta, shows the strength that comes from patience and careful consideration.
ABIGAIL
KUBEKA
Veteran actress and musician Abigail Kubeka reflects on her journey, from using her performances to defy apartheid to inspiring future generations with her love, passion, and dedication to her craft. Abigail Kubeka was overwhelmed with gratitude...
BUSISWA
MALIE
She started at Standard Bank as a graduate intern. Over a decade later, she is the head of strategy enablement, personal, and private banking department. Having spent the first seven years of her life in a village outside Queenstown, Eastern Cape, makes Busiswa Malie who she is.
DINEO
LIOMA
At 34 years old, Dineo Lioma has established herself as a formidable force in the world of biotech and healthcare innovation. As an engineer, a biotech innovator, and a serial entrepreneur, she is the co-founder of three successful companies...
LYNSEY EBONY CHUTEL
Lynsey Ebony Chutel’s childhood in Eldorado Park, often referred to as Eldos, was marked by a unique family dynamic that played a pivotal role in shaping who she is today. Even though she comes from a large family, she was raised primarily by her mother...
MBALI
NTULI
At just seven years old, Mbali Ntuli found herself in the presence of Queen Elizabeth II. She had won a school competition in Durban, discussing the role of the queen – a figure she saw as powerful and capable of making a difference in people’s lives.
THANDO THABETHE
She’s a force to be reckoned with, having conquered every corner of the media industry. Whether it’s acting, radio broadcasting, or TV presenting, Thando Thabethe has excelled. Recently, she’s expanded her impressive résumé to include reality TV star, executive producer, media company owner...
SHAMISO
MOSAKA
Shamiso Mosaka, a rising star in the entertainment industry, has made a name for herself as an MTV Base VJ and Y DJ. Despite being the daughter of well-known broadcaster Azania Mosaka, her journey to success has been one of hard work, perseverance, and staying true to herself.
NOMZAMO MBATHA
Nomzamo Mbatha hails from KwaMashu, a township in Durban, KZN. Deeply rooted in her heritage and upbringing, she often speaks about how her background has shaped her vision and drive. Through her foundation, roles on screen, and global advocacy, she continues to inspire...
BOITY
THULO
Boitumelo “Boity” Thulo went from being a TV presenter, model, businesswoman, actress, and rapper to an entertainment industry sweetheart. She reflects on the journey that has included recently gracing a DRUM cover. Like most of us, Boity Thulo grew up reading copies of DRUM.
ZANELE
POTELWA
Besides being inspired by leading women in the industry, she was pulled up to entertainment greatness by women. Now, she wants to pass the baton of chasing one’s dreams fearlessly to the next generation of young women. She is on TV, radio, on the red carpet, and on stage, and everywhere you spot her...
THANDI
MURIU
In an interview made possible by technology, DRUM spoke telephonically from its Johannesburg offices with Thandi Muriu, a photographer and artist from Kenya. Throughout the conversation, it was clear that women, when given the chance, can positively and successfully dominate spaces that create a positive impact.
UNATHI
NKAYI
For someone who never planned on a career in entertainment, Unathi Nkayi has certainly made her mark over her 21 years in the industry. From TV presenting and singing to broadcasting and being a judge on SA Idols, she’s worn many hats, often juggling multiple roles at once with finesse.
ZIBU
SITHOLE
Upon being retrenched from her job as a journalist, Zibu Sithole was confronted with the harsh reality of leaving her suburban Randburg apartment and moving back to her parents’ home in Thokoza, Kathorus. Despite the option to pursue another journalism job, Zibu decided to chart a new course.
SAZINI
MOJAPELO
Born to a teenage mother who had to juggle the demands of school and parenthood, Sazini Mojapelo’s early years were anything but easy. Raised by her grandparents, she was thrust into a world where the harsh realities of life shaped her outlook and fueled her curiosity about social inequality.
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