Hendrina gospel artist makes her mark in the music industry
From singing in a local Sunday school choir to performing on national stages with the Tshwane Gospel Choir, Ayanda Mahamba reflects on finding her voice and staying grounded.
For Ayanda Mahamba (30), a rising gospel star, music is far more than just a career; it is her lifeline.
Born into a devout Christian family, Mahamba has dedicated her life to full-time ministry, using her powerful voice to uplift listeners and spread messages of faith across the country.
According to her, the journey into the spotlight did not happen overnight, although she grew up singing constantly.
“I was not aware that I had this gift when I was small, but I used to sing as I grew up,” she said.
“It was only when my Sunday school teacher put me in the praise team that I realised there was something powerful inside me; it healed me from within. From there, I sang non-stop.”
That early spark ignited a lifelong passion that eventually led to major milestones.
Choir opens national doors
Mahamba said that a turning point arrived in 2017 when she auditioned for and joined the renowned Tshwane Gospel Choir, relocating her musical journey to Pretoria in Gauteng.
“Since then, my vocal talent has graced some of the nation’s biggest platforms, including standout performances at the Puma Stadium on New Year’s Eve 2025 and the 2024 Presidential Inauguration in Pretoria.”
She added that her music lovers recognise her voice from the hit track ‘My Love is Freedom’, where she is featured alongside the Tshwane Gospel Choir.
Faith helps overcome industry noise
She broke through as a newcomer in the competitive entertainment industry, which has required resilience.
“There are a lot of challenges. Firstly, you must remember that people are different, and you cannot lose yourself. Sometimes people try to bring you down or criticise your singing. You must not take everything to heart; just remember why you are here,” she said.
For Mahamba, staying grounded in her purpose keeps the noise at bay, and every melody and lyric is essential to daily survival.
“Music is my daily breath. Even when I go out or attend concerts, it is all about the music. There is nothing I like more,” she said.
New music in the pipeline
With new material in the works, Mahamba shows no signs of slowing down.
As she prepares for the next chapter of her musical journey, she leaves her fans with a comforting reminder rooted in her favourite scripture, Isaiah 60:1:
“Arise and shine, for the glory of the Lord is upon you.”
