Skye Wanda on mission to heal, inspire, stay timeless

SOUTH African women have long been the heartbeat of the nation’s music scene - pushing boundaries, breaking stereotypes and inspiring generations.

- LUTHO PASIYA

Among them, few embody that fearless, genre-crossing spirit quite like Skye Wanda.

Known for her powerhouse vocals, heartfelt lyrics and ever-expanding skill set, the Durban-born artist is proving she is not just here to sing - she is here to lead, inspire and stay.

“I’m a multifaceted artist,” she said in a conversation with Independent Media Lifestyle.

“Kindhearted but feisty. I am passionate about my art, ambitious, a loving mother and sometimes just plain goofy. I am also a responsible human being living by faith. That is me; both as an artist and as a person.”

Born Nonhle Mhlongo, Wanda grew up in the vibrant township of Chesterville, KwaZulu-Natal. Music was not just a hobby - it was a family tradition.

“Everyone at home could sing,” she recalled. “My grandmother, my brothers, my sisters... music was always there. I started singing very young because it was part of who we were.”

Her big break almost came in 2015 when she entered Idols South Africa and made it to the Top 16. But personal circumstances forced her to withdraw. Instead of deterring her, that setback became a catalyst.

“My journey’s been up and down,” she admitted. “There have been great moments, and moments where I thought, ‘I’m done with music altogether. But I always find myself back because, for me, it is more than talent - it is my ministry.”

In recent years, Wanda has added another title to her growing resume: DJ. It was not just a random pivot - it was a strategic move to deepen her connection to dance music culture.

“The reason I started DJing was to expand my skills,” she explained.