On music, motherhood and making meaning

Zolani Mahola has always had range, vocally and creatively, but also as a mother, activist and mentor.

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She first entered South Africa's spotlight as the luminous voice of Afro-fusion band Freshlyground, and is now a solo artist known as "The One who Sings', who is embracing motherhood, not as an interruption of her artistry, but as its most authentic source.

Her story didn't start out as one of stardom.

Born in Gqeberha in 1981, Zolani grew up in a home where money was often scarce, a reality that gave her resilience, but also a complicated relationship with financial security.

"I became aware from a young age of money's weight and power," she reflects. "But I also carried some fear around it that took time to unlearn." It's a story many South African mothers know all too well. Having to make do with less, turning scarcity into sustenance, and shielding their children.

But Zolani's perspective on wealth has evolved. She now sees money not as a measure of success or self-worth, but simply as "energy... a tool for freedom and impact, especially when used in alignment with purpose and community."