The UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music will host Intsholo Yamanina: “Honouring the Melodies of Women in Song” led by Babalwa Mentjies on Wednesday 15 October. Babalwa is a versatile Jazz vocalist and accomplished songwriter from Makhanda, Eastern Cape, now based in Khayelitsha, Cape Town. She holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Jazz Performance from the University of KwaZulu-Natal and a postgraduate qualification in Marketing Management. Beyond her thriving performance career, she is a passionate vocal coach and music educator.

Babalwa Mentjies. Picture supplied

Babalwa currently serves as Project Manager at the Institute for Music and Indigenous Arts Development (IMAD) and is a co-founder of the Amathunzi Arts & Development Centre, an organization dedicated to using the arts to address social challenges. In 2024, she was honoured as an Influential Woman of the Year. She captivates audiences both locally and internationally, performing alongside South Africa’s leading Jazz artists with her soulful voice and commanding stage presence.

This all-female ensemble is led by Babalwa on vocals. Other members are pianist Thembi Dunjana, bassist Tiana Amaro Rwanqana, drummer Chanté Phillips, saxophonist Danél Dippenaar and trombonist Hope Radebe. The UKZN Centre for Jazz and Popular Music is located at Level 2, Dennis Shepstone Building, Howard College Campus. Patrons are advised to use Gate 3 or Gate 8 off Rick Turner Road. Tickets, which are available for cash at the door, are selling for R120 for general public, R90 for pensioners and R60 for students with a valid student card. Doors open at 17h00 and the concert starts at 17h30.