Discover the Project
The Beyond Busking Project aims to unlock the potential of young aspiring musicians — a transformative platform that empowers musicians to excel in songwriting, singing, guitar mastery, and music production. Led by industry icons, this program offers comprehensive mentorship, media exposure, and exciting performance opportunities to nurture talent and elevate careers.
2024/25 Beyond Busking Participants
Meet Our 2024/25Participants
Explore the journey and original songs of our talented 2024 participants through their videos and stories.
Dhahabu
Dhahabu—also known as Qondea Avril Mkansi—is a South African singer-songwriter and the creative force behind the genre AAR (Afro-Art Rock). With a background in musical theatre, Dhahabu’s performances are marked by a rich theatricality, blending storytelling with dynamic musical composition. Known for her unique approach to music, Dhahabu’s sound bridges Eurocentric and Afrocentric influences, creating a harmonious blend that challenges traditional genre classifications and unites diverse musical cultures. Her work is deeply rooted in storytelling, often drawing from her heritage and personal experiences, with an innovative use of vocals and custom-developed chords. Vocal coach Abigail Petersen praised the wide range of musical styles Dhahabu incorporates into her work. She has undoubtedly pushed boundaries by exploring and merging diverse genres.
Major Bless Iskhokho
Major Bless Iskhokho, real name Sibusiso Domingos Dunga, is a rising artist and music producer from Nyanga East, Cape Town. His passion for music began in high school, where he led a winning school choir and was encouraged to pursue his talent. After matriculating in 2020, he faced financial hardship but found purpose through music. At Northlink College, he connected with fellow creatives, built a home studio, and released his debut EP, Leo Living Legend, which gained attention on social media. Despite challenges — including becoming a young father, job instability, and moments of depression — Major Bless remained committed to his dream. His music, rooted in real-life experience and spiritual strength, tells stories of resilience and hope. Today, he continues to grow as an artist, using his gift to inspire and uplift others. This video captures Major Bless’ experience through the Beyond Busking Project—from the audition to a transformative deep dive into creative exploration. Major Bless reflects on his journey through the Beyond Busking program — from honing his skills in workshops to the transformative experience of recording in professional studios.
Mbali Rose
Mbali Rose (Mbalenhle “Mbali” Mthembu) is a Durban-born scientist and musician whose love for music was reignited after an eight-year break. While working in Nashville, her curiosity led her to songwriter rounds that inspired her to pick up the guitar and start writing again. Drawing from indie, folk, Afrofusion, and pop influences, she crafts a deeply personal and emotionally resonant sound. Performance Highlights Mbali has performed both locally and internationally, with standout performances at: • Honeytree Meadery (Nashville, TN) • The Commodore Grille (Nashville, TN)This video chronicles Mbali’s artistic evolution through the Beyond Busking Project, from her initial audition jitters to her transformative growth as a singer-songwriter. Mbali shares her journey, reflecting on how she discovered the program just a day before auditions and dove in headfirst. She opens up about discovering her vocal potential, developing songwriting techniques, and embracing her creative process. Vocal coach Abigail Petersen also shares insights into Mbali’s vocal development and growth throughout the project.
Liam Cova
Liam Van Der Heyde, known on stage as Liam Cova, is a soulful singer-songwriter and guitarist from Somerset West whose talent has been lighting up Cape Town’s music scene. Whether he’s busking at the V&A Waterfront, Sanctuary Shopping Centre, or Waterstone Village, Liam brings raw passion and authenticity to every performance. He’s graced renowned stages like the Baxter Theatre, GrandWest Arena, and Mojo Market, and made notable appearances on Expresso Show, Ekse Live (Cape Town TV), Radio Cape Town, and Helderberg FM. Liam has performed alongside celebrated South African artists, including Mujahid George, Carletheia, Isaacs, and Liam Burger, captivating audiences of all ages. This video captures Liam’s personal and artistic evolution through the Beyond Busking Project—from his first audition jitters to his deep dive into creative exploration. @liamcovamusic Facebook: @liam.vanderheyde The Beyond Busking Project paves a meaningful path for emerging artists like Liam Cova to grow, perform, and thrive in South Africa’s vibrant creative landscape by nurturing raw talent and providing essential skills development.
Queen Sinda
Lusinda Rolisisu — known on stage as Queen Sinda — is a talented and versatile artist making waves in the Jazz, Gospel, Pop, and Musical Theatre scene. With her soulful voice and genre-blending sound, she’s capturing hearts and ears across South Africa and beyond. Hailing from Langa, Cape Town, Queen Sinda’s musical journey began in her community choir, Langa Choral. Her powerful voice later saw her shine as a soloist for the Western Cape Police Choir (POLMUSCA) in 2008 and the PetroSA Choir in the Old Mutual competitions in 2010. In 2017, she joined the Africa Voices Trust and went on to win a recording deal through the Cape Town Gospel Auditions, releasing her debut album Ungithwalile under Gobz Nogwaja Productions. She also featured in the chorus recording for the musical Calling Me Home. Watch this video to witness Queen Sinda’s inspiring transformation through the Beyond Busking Project, from nervous auditionee to confident, expressive singer-songwriter.
Zikhona Maxine Zonke
Zikhona Maxine Zonke is a gifted gospel vocalist and faith-driven performer from Mfuleni, Cape Town, whose voice resonates with both purpose and passion. Her musical journey began in her teenage years when she joined a local gospel group, sparking a lifelong commitment to using her talent to uplift and inspire. She has since performed at community events and on platforms provided by Afrika Tikkun’s Zolile Malindi Centre, where her artistry was nurtured and recognized. In 2021, Zikhona advanced her skills through professional training at Rainbow Arts Organisation/Blackbox Theatre in Delft, preparing her for greater opportunities and broader audiences.This video captures Zikhona’s powerful evolution through the Beyond Busking Project—from her nervous first audition to a transformative deep dive into creative exploration
Participant Highlight 2023
Learn about Ivee Soul, our 2023 participants’ journeys and see their performances in this inspiring showcase.
- Original music
- Creative stories
- Emerging artists
Participant Highlight 2023
Experience the passion and originality of Dylan Red, our 2023 participants through their videos and personal stories, celebrating their musical growth.
- Performance videos
- Participant stories
- Original compositions
PHOTO GALLERY
Explore memorable moments from the Beyond Busking project.