When Chaka Khan sang “I’m Every Woman” in 1978, decades later DJ Zinhle would be the embodiment of the song, as the legendary DJ will be reaching milestones on Women’s Day weekend.

With a music career spanning two decades and topping the charts with hits such as “My Name Is” in 2012, DJ Zinhle will be hosting the Zee Nation Fest on Women’s Day on Friday at the Johannesburg Expo Centre at Nasrec.

Then, a few hours later, she will be lauded with a Trailblazer Award, courtesy of the Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) on Saturday at Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein.

The BIMA’s Trailblazer Award honours women who are pioneers and have made significant contributions to the music industry by inspiring their counterparts and breaking stereotypes, specifications that befit DJ Zinhle.

Nicknamed “Bestie” by her staunch supporters, and heading a strong marketing team for weeks, the #ZeeNationFest will feature a line-up of esteemed artists, including DBN Gogo, Nadia Nakai, Lwah Ndlunkulu and Busiswa, among others, further solidifying her status as a cultural icon and a trailblazer in the entertainment industry.

“Bestie” expressed her gratitude to the BIMAs for recognising and awarding her as a fundi in the music industry.

“I am deeply honoured to be recognised with the Trailblazer Award at Basadi in Music Awards.

“This award is a testament to the incredible journey I’ve embarked upon, and I am truly grateful for the unwavering support of my fans and the music industry. It is a privilege to be celebrated alongside so many talented women, and I hope to continue inspiring and empowering others as I navigate this exciting chapter of my career,” said DJ Zinhle.

The BIMAs CEO, Hloni Modise-Matau, and Joburg Theatre CEO Xoliswa Nduneni pointed that out DJ Zinhle conquered and defied gender stereotypes in the DJing industry, as it was male dominated, by being one the leading females DJs, following in the footsteps of DJ Cndo.

They further stated that DJ Zinhle cemented herself as an entrepreneur, proudly the owner of ERA and Hair Majesty.

“DJ Zinhle’s journey is truly inspiring, as she has shattered stereotypes and redefined success for women in the music and entertainment industry. She is a true embodiment of the Basadi spirit. Her dedication to her craft, her business acumen, and her commitment to empowering others perfectly exemplifies what it means to be a trailblazer,” they said.

Under the theme “Girl in the Mirror: Our Reflection”, and of course the BIMAs tradition must be kept, sneakers are a must-wear. SABC 2 acting channel head Jacqui Hlongwane noted that the awards ceremony will be broadcast on the channel.

“SABC 2 is proud to be the exclusive broadcaster partner of the 2024 Basadi in Music Awards as we celebrate the remarkable achievements of women in music,” said Hlongwane.

Additionally, she highlighted that DJ Zinhle’s accolade aligned with SABC 2’s commitment to empowering women, “whilst inspiring the younger generation to pursue their dreams with confidence and passion”.

The Star

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