Vhembe’s star Makhadzi takes home prestigious BET Award

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One of Vhembe’s best-known performers, Makhadzi, reached a remarkable milestone by receiving a 2024 Black Entertainment Television (BET) award on Sunday, 30 June, in Los Angeles, California.

The 28-year-old acclaimed singer and songwriter, Ndivhudzannyi Ralivhona from Ha-Mashamba near Elim, popularly known as Makhadzi, is beaming with pride after her award-winning achievement. Her latest triumph came in the Viewer’s Choice: Best New International Act category at the BET Awards, where she emerged victorious over strong contenders, including fellow South African artist Tyler ICU and other global talents.

The significance of the occasion was heightened as Makhadzi celebrated her 28^th birthday amidst the glitz and glamour of the event, marking a dual celebration of her talent and personal milestones. During the awards ceremony, she humbly paid homage to her roots by performing a traditional Tshivenda bow before gracefully accepting her award.

“I’m so happy. I’m someone who started selling music on the street, and today I’m here. My dream came true. I’m speechless. All I can say is, it’s possible for a black child to make it, and this is the best birthday ever,” she said.

The singer was reported to allegedly have owed the South African Revenue Service (SARS) R6.6-million, which was later decreased to R2.7-million in December last year. On Monday, 1 July, during an interview on Podcast and Chill with MacG, Makhadzi confirmed the report, revealing that she had borrowed money from loan sharks to attend the awards ceremony.

“I’m going through a lot, and it’s not a secret. Every month, I end up not having money for myself because I’m paying SARS. So, for me to travel, I have to go to loan sharks. My team has to borrow money for me, so I can fly business class because I have to maintain the superstar image,” she said.

Makhadzi received congratulatory messages from all walks of life, including the national Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture and various municipalities. Limpopo’s first female premier, Dr Phophi Ramathuba, extended her heartfelt congratulations to the talented singer, praising her unique voice, vibrant energy, and undeniable stage presence that have captivated global audiences.

“We are immensely proud of Makhadzi’s achievement and look forward to witnessing her continued success on the global stage. Well done, Makhadzi - you have made Limpopo proud,” Ramathuba said.

By: Thembi Siaga

Thembi Siaga started as an intern during 2021. He assisted with video photography and editing. He also produced numerous small documentaries, focusing on the Vhembe region and its people. Currently he works as a freelance journalist, covering stories in the Elim area.

Thembi studied at the Tshwane University of Technology, where he completed his diploma in Journalism in 2021.