Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule was one of those rare individuals whose voice carried warmth, authority, and deep spiritual meaning all at once. Long before her name became synonymous with gospel excellence in South Africa, she was simply a young girl from Durban with a passion for communication and faith. Over the years, she grew into a respected media personality, gospel advocate, entrepreneur, and mentor whose impact stretched far beyond television and radio.
Her life story is one of purpose, resilience, and service—one that continues to inspire many even after she passed away.
Zanele Mbokazi Biography
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule |
| Date of Birth | November 7, 1971 |
| Place of Birth | Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa |
| Age | 54 years |
| Nationality | South African |
| Husband | Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule |
| Daughter | Yolanda Myeza |
| Profession | Media personality, entrepreneur |
| Known For | Gospel media & Crown Gospel Music Awards |
| Status | Passed away |
Who Was Zanele Mbokazi?
Zanele Mbokazi-Nkambule was a South African media powerhouse, gospel promoter, and businesswoman best known for her contribution to Christian broadcasting and gospel music development. She was widely respected for blending professionalism with spirituality, creating platforms that uplifted gospel artists and encouraged faith-based conversations nationwide.
To many, she was more than a presenter—she was a voice of hope, much like a lighthouse guiding ships safely through rough waters.
Early Life and Background
Zanele Mbokazi was born on November 7, 1971, in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. She was raised in Durban, a culturally rich and vibrant city that played a major role in shaping her personality and worldview.
From an early age, Zanele displayed confidence, intelligence, and a natural gift for communication. Those who knew her as a child often described her as outspoken yet respectful, curious yet grounded—traits that later defined her career.
Educational Journey
Education laid a solid foundation for Zanele’s future success. She completed her primary education in Durban and later attended St. Francis College in Marianhill for her secondary education. During her school years, she excelled academically and developed a strong interest in public speaking, leadership, and media-related activities.
After completing high school, she enrolled at the University of Natal, now known as the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). There, she earned a Bachelor of Arts degree, majoring in English and Politics. Driven by a desire to deepen her media knowledge, she went on to obtain a BA Honors degree in Media and Communications from the same institution.
Zanele also earned a Public Relations Diploma from Damelin, further sharpening her communication and strategic skills.
How Zanele Mbokazi Started Her Media Career
Zanele Mbokazi’s journey into the media world began in the early 1990s. Her first major exposure came when she appeared on the reality show Livewire on the then NNTV. This opportunity opened doors and revealed her natural on-screen presence.
Soon after, she transitioned into radio, becoming a presenter on Ukhozi FM, one of South Africa’s largest and most influential radio stations. She hosted gospel music programs and talk shows, quickly earning the love of listeners due to her calm delivery, thoughtful questions, and spiritual depth.
Television Career and National Recognition
In 1997, Zanele expanded her reach by moving into television. She worked as a news and current affairs presenter on SABC1, a role that showcased her professionalism and credibility.
She later became the host of the popular gospel program Ihora Lokudumisa, which further cemented her reputation as a trusted figure in the Christian community. Through television, Zanele was able to reach millions of viewers, spreading messages of faith, hope, and encouragement.
Entrepreneurship and Business Ventures
Zanele Mbokazi was not only a media personality but also a sharp-minded entrepreneur. In 1999, she founded Mirror PR and Events, a public relations and events management company.
Through Mirror PR and Events, she managed high-profile local and international events, handled media strategies, and provided communication services to various organizations. Her business success proved that she was just as effective behind the scenes as she was in front of the camera.
Crown Gospel Music Awards and Industry Impact
One of Zanele Mbokazi’s most remarkable achievements was founding the Crown Gospel Music Awards. The annual event was created to celebrate excellence in gospel music and recognize artists who were often overlooked by mainstream award platforms.
Under her leadership, the awards grew into one of the most respected gospel music events in South Africa. Many gospel artists credit Zanele for giving them visibility, confidence, and a platform to share their ministry through music.
Other Notable Television Projects
Zanele continued to expand her influence in gospel media over the years. In 2010, she hosted the first season of the ONE Gospel reality competition “Shine.” The show focused on discovering and nurturing gospel talent across the country.
In 2012, she presented the religious talk show Khwezela / Rekindle with Zanele Mbokazi on SABC1, where she discussed faith, personal growth, and societal issues from a spiritual perspective.
Zanele Mbokazi’s Age
Zanele Mbokazi was 54 years old at the time she passed away. Despite her age, she remained active, visionary, and deeply involved in gospel media and mentorship.
Her passing away at this stage of life came as a painful shock to many who believed she still had so much more to give.
Husband: Who Was Zanele Mbokazi Married To?
Zanele Mbokazi was married to Bishop Mpendulo Nkambule, a respected religious leader. Their marriage was built on shared faith, mutual respect, and a strong spiritual foundation.
Together, they were admired as a couple committed to ministry, leadership, and service. Bishop Nkambule often supported Zanele’s work and stood by her throughout her journey.
Daughter and Children
Zanele Mbokazi was a proud mother. Her daughter is Yolanda Myeza, whom she deeply loved and protected from excessive public exposure.
While Zanele kept much of her family life private, it was evident that motherhood was one of her greatest joys. She balanced her demanding career with her role as a mother, ensuring her child grew up grounded in values and faith.
Cause of Passing Away
Zanele Mbokazi passed away after facing health-related challenges. Her family chose to keep specific details private, a decision that was widely respected by the public.
News of her passing away sparked an outpouring of grief across South Africa, especially within the gospel music and media communities.
Public Reactions and Tributes
Following her passing away, tributes flooded social media, radio stations, churches, and television platforms. Gospel artists, media professionals, and fans described her as kind, principled, and visionary.
Many referred to her as a “pillar in the gospel industry” and a “mother figure” who opened doors for others.
Legacy and Lasting Influence
Zanele Mbokazi’s legacy lives on through the platforms she built, the artists she supported, and the lives she touched. Her work continues to inspire a new generation of gospel broadcasters and creatives.
Though she passed away, her voice still echoes through memories, recordings, and the institutions she established.
Conclusion
Zanele Mbokazi lived a life of meaning, service, and unwavering faith. She was a woman who used her voice not for noise, but for impact. Though she passed away, her legacy remains firmly rooted in South Africa’s gospel and media landscape.
Her story reminds us that true success is not measured by fame alone, but by how many lives we uplift along the way.
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