Born Ntombezinhle Jiyane in the small KwaZulu-Natal town of Dannhauser, DJ Zinhle’s journey from aspiring TV presenter to one of Africa’s top female DJs is nothing short of phenomenal. With over two decades in the game, she’s more than just a music icon — she’s a cultural force, entrepreneur, and beacon of empowerment.
Here are 7 powerful facts you may not know about DJ Zinhle:
1. She Never Planned to Be a DJ
Zinhle originally wanted to be a TV presenter. Her transition into DJing began when her brother Zak, who owned a sound equipment company and loved mixing vinyl, introduced her to the craft. What started as a hobby became a full-blown career in 2004, leading to her big break as the resident DJ on SABC 1’s youth dance show Jika Majika.
2. “Umlilo” Was a Record-Breaking Hit
Her 2019 single “Umlilo” featuring Mvzzle and Rethabile wasn’t just a dancefloor favorite — it was a certified cultural moment. The song hit 5.1 million streams in just three months, went triple platinum, and was voted 2019’s Song of the Year. DJ Zinhle cemented her hitmaker status.
3. She’s a Multi-Faceted Businesswoman
Zinhle is the founder of ERA by DJ Zinhle, a stylish accessories brand launched in 2013. She also co-authored the self-help book Meeting Your Power in 2018 and has built a brand synonymous with empowerment and elegance — all while spinning records.
4. She Made History as Africa’s Top Female DJ
In 2019 and again in 2021, DJ Zinhle was ranked Africa’s number one female DJ by DJaneTop — a rare feat that placed her on the continental map in a male-dominated industry. She also won Forbes Woman Africa Entertainer of the Year in 2020.
5. She’s a Reality TV Star and Mentor
In 2021, Zinhle launched her BET Africa reality series, DJ Zinhle: The Unexpected, offering fans a raw and real glimpse into her life, business, and motherhood. She’s also mentored young talent as a judge on SABC 1’s 1’s and 2’s, further solidifying her role as a role model for aspiring artists.
6. She’s Dominated the Awards Circuit
From Metro FM to SAMAs and international stages, DJ Zinhle has bagged and been nominated for multiple awards. In 2024 alone, she won Collaboration of the Year (Mdali with Basetsana), and Trailblazer of the Year at the Basadi in Music Awards. She also took home Pan African Artist of the Year at the Namibian Annual Music Awards in 2020.
7. She’s a Fierce Advocate for Women Empowerment
Zinhle doesn’t just talk about empowering women — she puts it into action. From her show It Takes a Village to her business initiatives, book, and mentorship, she has actively created platforms that elevate and inspire women in music, business, and life.
