In a powerful celebration of township excellence and entrepreneurial resilience, Sbusiso Leope—affectionately known as DJ Sbu—was awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the second annual Township Economy Awards (TEAs). The accolade recognises his decades-long contribution to media, business, and community upliftment, all deeply rooted in the township economy.
From humble beginnings in Tembisa, where he volunteered at Tembisa Info Radio, DJ Sbu’s journey has been one of relentless drive and purpose. His early immersion in community broadcasting laid the groundwork for a career that would later shape national youth culture through his influential role at YFM, one of South Africa’s most iconic youth radio stations.
Beyond the Mic: A Multifaceted Trailblazer.
DJ Sbu’s impact transcends the airwaves. As a music producer, DJ, and entrepreneur, he has consistently used his platform to champion township narratives. His co-founding of MoFaya, a proudly South African energy drink brand, marked a pivotal moment in township entrepreneurship. MoFaya became more than a beverage—it became a symbol of ownership, empowerment, and economic participation.
Author, Investor, Mentor.
Leope’s influence extends into thought leadership and personal development. Through his books, he shares practical insights on discipline, self-belief, and long-term thinking—lessons drawn from lived experience rather than theory. As a property investor, he advocates for sustainable wealth creation and asset ownership, especially among young township entrepreneurs.
Education as Empowerment.
Through the Sbusiso Leope Education Foundation, DJ Sbu has reached over 500,000 township learners, opening doors to education, leadership, and entrepreneurship. His foundation has become a beacon of hope, guiding youth toward academic and professional success.
A Legacy of Impact.
The Lifetime Achievement Award is not just a personal milestone—it’s a celebration of a life dedicated to uplifting communities, creating platforms, and inspiring generations. DJ Sbu’s journey is a testament to what’s possible when passion meets purpose in the heart of the township.
“This award is not just for me—it’s for every young person in the township who dares to dream,” DJ Sbu said in his acceptance speech.
As the Township Entrepreneur’s Alliance (TEA) continues to spotlight changemakers and innovators, DJ Sbu’s recognition serves as a rallying cry for all aspiring entrepreneurs: build boldly, lead with heart, and never forget your roots.#TEAS2025 | #JoinUsForTEA | #TownshipExcellence | #DJ_SbuLegacy
Siyanda Ngqayimbana A.K.A. Da blaq Bull: From the Streets of Makhaza to Global Hip Hop Recognition
Siyanda Ngqayimbana, also known as Da blaq Bull, is an emerging hip-hop sensation whose journey from the vibrant streets of Makhaza to the global music stage is capturing hearts and turning heads. Born and raised in the heart of 37sec Ghost Town, Siyanda’s narrative is a testament to the power of passion, dedication, and the pursuit of one’s dreams.
Siyanda’s love affair with rap began in 2014 while growing up in Site B, Khayelitsha. At the time, he was not yet recording his tracks, instead opting to express his lyrical prowess through freestyle videos captured on his phone. It wasn’t until he moved back to Makhaza in 2017 that Siyanda’s latent passion for music found fertile ground. In an environment where his friends weren’t particularly attuned to the hip-hop genre, Siyanda’s determination to create music was unyielding. He remained focused on his studies until the call of the craft could no longer be ignored.
A turning point came in Grade 10 when Siyanda’s ardor for writing and rapping was rekindled. A chance Facebook post seeking a studio in Makhaza led him to an encounter with fellow recording artist Nasy C Alta. This meeting marked the inception of Siyanda’s professional music journey. Under Nasy C Alta’s guidance, Siyanda recorded his first track, “Bombay,” produced by SO Deno which rapidly gained viral traction within his community. The track’s success not only established Siyanda as a force to be reckoned with but also ignited a fervor for musical expression that couldn’t be contained.
Siyanda’s trajectory skyrocketed when he collaborated with fellow Cape Town artists Mossi l Bay and Cynth Kid on “Ithongo Lemambs,” a collaboration that etched his name into the very fabric of Cape Town’s hip-hop scene. His international footprint expanded further with the release of “War Ready,” a collaboration with American artist Mizzy Hendrix . This transcontinental collaboration was a testament to Siyanda’s cross-cultural appeal, capturing the attention of listeners across digital platforms.
However, the journey was not without its obstacles. As the studio where he had been recording closed its doors, Siyanda’s musical momentum came to a temporary halt. But in 2023, a stroke of luck revitalized his journey. With the support of a neighbor who happened to be a recording artist armed with a laptop, Siyanda produced his latest track, “Testimony.” A song initially written in 2022, “Testimony” encapsulates Siyanda’s resilience and his unrelenting spirit to keep creating despite the odds.
Mark your calendars for September 20th as Siyanda Da Bull drops “Testimony” across all digital platforms. The release promises to be a testament not only to his growth as an artist but also to his dedication to his craft.
Siyanda Da Bull also has thrilling collaborations on the horizon. With a forthcoming track featuring the talented American artist Moonraq, alongside Mizzy Hedrix, Siyanda’s influence is poised to transcend borders. Furthermore, a collaboration with Rap God and kill Kris’s , another exceptional American artist, is also in the works, promising a musical experience that bridges continents.
Siyanda Da Bull Ngqayimbana’s journey is an ode to the resilience and passion of Africa’s rising hip-hop stars. His relentless drive and unwavering belief in his artistry continue to shape his path to greatness. As Siyanda continues to amplify his presence on the global music stage, he remains an inspiration to aspiring artists across the world.
