Naledi Aphiwe started the year 2026 with gratitude after being nominated for Best African Duo or Group in R&B alongside Mawelele at the 9th All Africa Music Awards (Afrima), which concluded in Lagos on Sunday, 11 January.
She was up against the likes of Kunmie from Nigeria, Manal from Morocco, to name a few, and the winner and 2024 Grammy Award-nominee, Rema.
Since her rise to fame, Naledi Aphiwe has achieved the unthinkable! At 18, she has gone where many dare to dream. Being nominated against African giants at the 9th All Africa Music Awards (Afrima) is motivation to aim higher and dream even bigger.
“This nomination is an indication of great things to come this year. It shows that hard work will never go unnoticed. Seeing my name next to the likes of international artists means there is a place for me in the world and in other African countries.”
Her story ‘From a township classroom to Global stages’ serves as a testament to the power of talent and perseverance. With a growing discography and an ever-expanding fanbase, Naledi is poised to leave an indelible mark on the music industry.
In 2025, she made remarkable strides, which rewarded her with a Best African Song and Best R&B Song nomination at the Metro FM Music Awards for her hit song “Romeo & Juliet” alongside Mawelele. In 2024, she scooped the Sofn’free Africa Afro Pop Artist of the Year at the Basadi Music Award.
“This year, we work harder, aim higher while doing what we love.”
Her strong personality and musical content have helped Naledi build a very strong and loyal fanbase/social footprint of up to 4.9 Million. With a combined digital reach of 4M+ followers across TikTok and Instagram, Naledi promises to be the next Global Superstar.
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
1. You were nominated against giants like Rema. What does this nomination mean for you?
I couldn’t believe it. I never once imagined I’d be competing with global artists such as Rema. Especially under the “Best African Artist” category. This puts me in the conversations among other prominent artists and no longer being referred to as the Young artist on the coming up.
2. Did you ever see yourself going against people like Rema so soon in your career?
No, never, I thought a collaboration with him and me would come sooner, but I guess this is part of the process leading to that. He deserved it and being in the category was an honour.
3. You have been celebrated at home when you won at the Metro FM Awards. What does getting a nomination outside of South Africa feel like?
This nomination made me realize I have the potential to shine outside of my comfort zone. Not just locally, but in other countries as well. It has really been an eye-opener, motivating me to start growing my audience internationally going forward.
3. What are your goals for the year 2026?
This year I want to release more music and my debut album. I want to become a complete all-around artist. I want to start touring in other countries, just expanding my reach and pushing boundaries.
4. How important are award ceremonies for you?
I don’t usually focus my energy too much on awards in general, more than making great music. Awards come with praise but also with disappointments, but I will always appreciate my name being mentioned in such celebratory events because it shows that my work is getting more recognition.
5. When making music, what do you have in mind and what do you want your listeners to hear?
I make music based on my mood, my experiences, and the atmosphere at the studio. I want my supporters to connect with the real me. I want them to understand me as a person through the music that I make.
About Naledi Aphiwe
Naledi Aphiwe Myongwana, professionally known as Naledi Aphiwe, has emerged as one of South Africa’s youngest superstars, becoming a Metro Award-winning artist at the age of 18. Born and raised in the vibrant township of Inanda, in Durban. Naledi’s passion for music was evident from a tender age. She began singing from a very young age, honing her craft through school choirs, church groups, and local performances.
Her musical journey took a transformative turn in 2022 when a video of her singing in a classroom at Khethokuhle Secondary School went viral on TikTok. The clip, showcasing her powerful vocals, caught the attention of global superstar Chris Brown, who described her voice as “Angelic” . Chris Brown went on to feature her voice on his “Shooter” from his Grammy Award-winning Studio album 11:11.
Naledi Aphiwe’s music style is a vibrant fusion of Afro-pop, soul, and is deeply rooted in her South African Zulu heritage. Her sound is characterised by emotive, soulful vocals that convey raw emotion and authenticity, often paired with melodic instrumentation and modern production. Drawing inspiration from traditional African rhythms and contemporary global influences, her songs feature heartfelt lyrics that explore themes of love, gratitude, personal growth, and cultural pride.
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