CLASSICAL music singer makes her mark internationally.
Yolisa Ngwexana graduated with a Master's degree in opera performance from the Guildhall School of Music and Drama in London in 2024.
The 31-year-old from Khayelitsha in Cape Town grew up in a church environment where choral music was a constant presence.
"It's my calling, I'm happy to be doing it, although there are challenges like getting gigs. This type of music is not supported enough by the government. There are a few active theaters putting on opera productions which is not enough for us," she said.
Yolisa explained that before studying in the UK, she completed her music studies at North West University, where she acquired her diploma in music in 2021.
"Through this music, I have realised that all human beings are the same with different cultures. This type of music allows me to travel and interact with different people and cultures," she said.
Yolisa has performed in many countries, including Italy, France, Switzerland, Belgium and Germany.
"I'm proud to be a South African. Home is unique and I love our culture and people," she said.
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However, she admitted that when she performs abroad, she misses home, particularly pap and beef. She also enjoys umqhusho, a dish made of samp mixed with beans.
"I love how we dress in our tradition and in our ceremonies we do in Cofimvaba in Eastern Cape," she said.
Yolisa wants to perform more overseas while also growing her Mzansi presence.
She is inspiring many young people, especially in Khayelitsha.
"I want to represent Khayelitsha wherever I go. There is crime and unemployment in my kasi. I will in future introduce more sporting facilities and music programmes to take kids away from the streets," she said.
When not practising, Yolisa spends much of her time at the gym.
"I'm a soprano singer, I'm reserved and prefer to be indoors and watch my Netflix and eat," she said.
