Shudufhadzo Musida On Miss South Africa Title And 2020 Becoming A Dream Come True

• 

Shudufhadzo Abigail Musida / 24 / Miss South Africa 2020

Obvious first question…how does it feel to be Miss South Africa 2020?

It feels amazing and surreal, I have to pinch myself sometimes. It’s also been so busy as well. It usually hits me at night when I head to bed. It’s still hitting me in small doses.

How was your upbringing like?

It was a good upbringing, I was in a free and safe space where I could always be myself.

When did you decide to try out for the pageant?

I decided last year for the first time. Before I didn’t think I could enter such a pageant, I thought you had to look a certain way but I realised things were changing.

What kept you going through all the weeks leading up to the main event?

Knowing that I would make a really good Miss South Africa, I could make a change and do really well at being an ambassador of the country. I’ve always wanted to impact people’s lives and live a life of service.

One cool thing South Africans don’t know about you …yet?

I’ve always wanted to be a singer and entertainer.

Mental Health is a strong focus of yours, what’s your take on the youth of today and how they tackle this serious issue?

I read somewhere that suicide is currently the leading cause of death between ages 15-29 and in South Africa, 1 in 10 people are expected to suffer from mental health in their lifetime but only I in those 10 people will have access to mental healthcare. It is an important issue globally and when people are not okay, they don’t know that it’s okay to not be okay. It is still considered a taboo issue around the world, and no one equips the youth and we end up having a high suicide rate.

Your absolute favourite moment of the Miss South Africa journey before your crowning?

In Cape Town sitting at the dinner table and hearing some of the ladies telling us about their adventures in New York. I remember memorising everyone’s name on the table that night. I have never been that happy in my life.

What’s your advice to other young ladies in pursuit of the crown?

Your dreams are valid, you can do it if you put your mind to it. Many stereotypes and narratives have been changed. It’s your time!

Follow Shudufhadzo!

Instagram: @shudufhadzomusida

Twitter: @abigailmusida

Facebook: @ShudufhadzoMusida

-Bridgette Makhela

Azana On Her Debut Album, What Talent Means To Her And Her Vision For Years To Come

Makhosazana “Azana” Masango / 20 / Singer & Songwriter
 
That moment you knew you wanted to be in the music industry was?
 
At the age of six I had already made up my mind about being a musician, it was something I knew my whole life from then. Performing at preschool for the first time triggered the feeling of wanting to perform.
 
The single ‘Your Love’ has made major waves, did you think it would be this big?
 
Yes, I knew it would do well because it’s very catchy and it’s a cute love message.


 
Why the title ‘Ingoma’ for your debut album?
 
It’s an abstract title. I love abstract art and stories. The idea behind the title is that it’s not just an INGOMA (a song) is not just a song. Its memories, feelings, expressions, stories and messages.
 
What is it about South African music that you admire?
 
I admire how soulful South African music is and I admire the messages our artists give to the people.
 
Is there a team behind your brand?
 
Of course! Bigcitydreams Records is the team behind the magic you see.


 
Got a favourite single from your offering so far?
 
All 14 tracks from INGOMA are my babies and I love them all the same because they all come from my thoughts and I value what I think and write.
 
Talent, what does it mean to you as an artist? 
 
Talent means an advantage to me (which I am aware I do have) but it does not mean a guaranteed success, hard work gives me hope and confidence in all that I do.
 
One thing you could use to change the world would be?
 
I’d use my music to encourage people to think bigger and tackle poverty, racism and inequality.


 
What’s your vision for years to come?
 
I’m wishing to learn more by educating myself about the fields of entertainment, and to improve every time I create or put something out there for someone to see.

 

Follow Azana!

Instagram: @azanamusic

Twitter: @azanamusic

Facebook: @azanamusic

-Bridgette Makhela