South Africa has lost yet another giant, an icon in the media fraternity. Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule has died at 52. She passed away in the early hours of Monday, 12 August 2024, at Parklands Hospital in Durban.
Zanele succumbed to lung cancer – after undergoing minor surgery for shortness of breath. Back in April, the Ukhozi FM presenter fell ill and could not finish her show as she experienced challenges with her voice.
Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule born November 7, 1971, in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa was truly a multi-faceted powerhouse dominating presences as a Preacher, Evangelist, TV/Radio Presenter and Entrepreneur.
She was raised in the vibrant city of Durban, where she completed her primary education. She attended St. Francis College in Marianhill for her secondary education, where she excelled academically and developed a passion for public speaking and media.
After matriculating, she enrolled at the University of Natal, now known as the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), where she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree majoring in English and Politics. Her academic journey didn’t stop there; she further pursued a BA Honors degree in Media and Communications at the same university and obtained a PR Diploma from Damelin.
Zanele’s career in showbiz began in the 1990s when she starred in the reality show Livewire on the then NNTV. This initial exposure led her to a role as a presenter for gospel music programs and talk shows on one of South Africa’s most popular radio stations, Ukhozi FM.
In 1997, Zanele expanded her career to television, working as a news and current affairs presenter for SABC1. She also presented the gospel music program Ihora Lokudumisa, which further established her as a respected figure in the South African gospel community.
In 1999, Zanele founded her public relations company, Mirror PR and Events, which specializes in event management, communications, PR, and media strategies. Through this company, she managed and produced top local and international events, further solidifying her reputation as a skilled entrepreneur.
She was the visionary behind the Crown Gospel Music Awards, an annual event that celebrates excellence in gospel music. Her work in this area earned her widespread recognition and respect. She also hosted the first season of the ONE Gospel reality competition Shine in 2010 and later presented the SABC1 religious talk show Khwezela/Rekindle with Zanele Mbokazi in 2012.
In 2023, after a 23-year hiatus, Zanele returned to radio, resuming her work as a presenter on Ukhozi FM, much to the delight of her many adoring fans.
Zanele married Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule of Word of Hope Ministries in 2011. The power couple shared a deep commitment to their faith and ministry, working together to spread the message of hope and empowerment.
Her accolades earned her the title, media mogul. Her professionalism and work ethos have left an indelible mark in the entertainment industry. A true legend. Gone too soon.
Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule was a proud mother and often shared moments of her life with her daughter Yolanda on social media.
Our heartfelt condolences to her family, colleagues and fans worldwide.
Rest in power. Rest in peace Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule. Go on. Go home.
By Sinenzolo Mondi
Additional information: My Newsroom
