Bringing girl power to the decks
DJ Charmza says she's a determined, hard-working and ambitious woman, marking her territory in this male-dominated concrete jungle.
POLOKWANE – The music industry is mainly a male-dominated one, with female DJs only now emerging from the shadows and showcasing their talents.
Charmaine Charmza DJ Teka, is a 26-year-old aspiring DJ who hails from Lebowakgomo in Zone B Limpopo, now residing in Pretoria.
“I represent my province when I’m in Gauteng, I always make sure I share the talent I developed in my hometown with my fans in Pretoria,” she said.
She says as a DJ, she loves playing to the crowd, but in her spare time, she loves watching movies with her son and trying out new restaurants and hanging out with my friends.
Charmza works at a bank in production support all while she studies towards a diploma in programming, and DJs at parties when she’s not at college or work.
“I’m hosting my first event on 14 April, called The Monochrome Easter Party, at Majamo’s in my hometown of Lebowakgomo, I’m bringing the talent back home.”
She does all her own marketing in the hope that her hard work will earn her a reputable management and PR company to manage her. “I derived my love for House music from my friends. Growing up they would always buy and play music and, because we were always together, the love for music developed naturally,” she said.
Charmza says it is very tricky being a woman in the DJ world and she has mixed emotions when on stage. “I can’t really speak for others but you need to believe in yourself. Your passion, love and determination should give you courage to achieve anything you want to in this world. Nerves should never get in the way of your dreams. I think being a female is a challenge in itself as this field is dominated mostly by males.” She believes as female DJ’s they are treated differently to their male counterparts.
“But the industry is slowly changing and we are slowly but surely earning the same respect as men.” She offers advice to aspiring DJs, saying they should follow their dreams and stay focused. “Don’t be afraid to put yourself out there, and talent is nothing without hard work. Whatever happens, don’t give up. Persevere.”
She believes being a mother adds to her desire to be successful. “Greatness awaits us!” she exclaimed.
