As a woman hosting a hip-hop radio show, have you faced any challenges in earning respect within a space that’s often male-dominated?
I have been lucky that I haven’t faced any challenges yet because of my gender, and I attribute that to my go-getter attitude.
You cite figures like Tbo Touch, Nomuzi Mabena, Ney The Bae, the late Riky Rick and Nicki Minaj as inspirations. What lessons have you taken from each of them that shape how you approach your career?
Tbo Touch and Nicki Minaj have taught me that it is very important to be your authentic self; don’t try to mimic anyone. Ney The Bae has taught me the importance of building a brand. The lesson I took from Ricky Rick is the importance of giving back to the next generation. These lessons have all been vital in how I look at media and my career.
In your opinion, what is the current state of women in African hip-hop, both on the microphone and behind the scenes?
I am proud and inspired by the women in hip-hop currently. They know what they want, and they go after it. I am so happy to see a lot of women in the scene, whereas previously we didn’t have a lot of women venturing into hip-hop. Now we are here and taking up space and making a name for ourselves.
Which women in South African hip-hop do you think deserve far more recognition than they’re currently receiving, and why?
I would say Nadia Nakai. She’s been in the game for a while. She’s so talented, and she’s got bars for days. Nomuzi Mabena is also a force, from branding to styling. She literally embodies hip-hop. These two ladies have a crazy work ethic, and that really inspires me a lot.
Through your interviews, what’s one common struggle you’ve noticed emerging artists – especially women – continue to face?
Many upcoming artists struggle to get exposure, to get their music played and to market their brand to the masses.
Community radio is often the first platform for many artists. How important do you think stations like Thabantsho FM are in developing the next generation of hip-hop talent?
Community radio stations like Thabantsho FM play a vital role in exposing local artists to the rest of the music industry. We give them a platform where they can be interviewed, and we don’t stop there because we also play their music, which helps to increase their fan base and market them. We also give them a platform to perform at our events.
Beyond radio, you’re actively involved with the Community Sports Development Agency (CSDA). How do media and community work complement each other in creating opportunities for young people?
When Karabo and I started the Community Sports Development Agency, we wanted to empower children in rural areas to show them that “black child, it is possible”. We also wanted to inspire and mentor them, providing support and grooming them for the future.
You’ve helped create opportunities through music while also helping children access education through initiatives like school shoe donations. What keeps you motivated to serve your community?
What motivates me is my love and passion for what I do. I didn’t get into NPOs for money, but I got into it because I want to make a difference in my community. To expose our future generations to opportunities that I never knew existed when I was their age. It gives me joy to empower a child and to help those in need, and that is what keeps me motivated daily.
Hip-hop has always been rooted in storytelling and social change. Do you believe today’s artists are still using their voices to address issues affecting their communities?
I am proud of how upcoming artists are using Instagram to address the challenges that they are currently facing. Look at an artist like X Wolf who is based in Motetema – his music speaks to you and tells you of his struggles. There’s also Paper Triumvert based in the Free State; his music talks to you about what he also faces in his community. Then there’s Teeblow from Mamelodi, another talented young man who raps about his community and the challenges he faces. So indeed, they are using their voices to drive social change.
As someone from Limpopo, how would you describe the growth of the province’s hip-hop scene over the past few years?
I would say hip-hop has grown in Limpopo. We don’t only have artists trying to be the next Lil Wayne and rapping in English, but they are now confident in who they are and are making songs in their home languages.
If you had the opportunity to curate your dream Hip & Happening panel featuring three women in African hip-hop, who would you invite and what conversation would you want to have with them?
My dream panel would include Nomuzi Mabena, Nadia Nakai and Ney The Bae. We would discuss issues that women face in the industry and how to overcome them – like how to get more women into hip-hop and how to build a brand that is resilient and connects with girls from around the world.
What advice would you give to young women who dream of becoming radio presenters, DJs or media personalities within hip-hop culture?
I would say, young lady, it is possible! Go after your dreams and be relentless. Work hard because the opportunities are there. You just need to look for them. Nothing is given to you – you must take it.
Looking ahead, what’s next for Hloniphile Khumalo, and what legacy do you hope to leave in both African hip-hop and your community?
There’s so much I want to achieve. I still want to be on your TV screens. I really love podcasts, and I am currently working on one, so be on the lookout for that. I want to be remembered as a young woman who came from nothing but went after her dreams and achieved them. I want to be an inspiration to young ladies all over the country – your past doesn’t define you.
Are you on the socials?
Find me on Instagram: @Hlonie_the_goddess.
illythehost
hypemagazine.co.za
