Metro FM's youngest winner Naledi Aphiwe reflects on her stardom - ‘I wish my mom was here'

News24

08-05-2025

She has come a long way, from singing in a classroom to singing on stages.
She broke the record as being the youngest star in South Africa to win a Metro FM Awards this year.
This was a testament to singer and songwriter Naledi Aphiwe (18) that she is heading in the right direction in her musical career.
'Being recognised by the metros means a lot to me. It's proof that people acknowledge me for my achievements and talents,' she tells Drum.
'It also shows me that I'm appreciated as a young artist and rising star.'
She celebrated the milestone with family and close friends who have been her pillars through the start of her career. She plans to host a mammoth party to celebrate her award.
'I haven't celebrated it yet but I'm planning on making a big thing for my supporters to show them how much I appreciate them.'
Rooted in Inanda, KwaZulu-Nala, Naledi Aphiwe gained fame when a video of her singing with her classmates from Khethokuhle Secondary School circulated on social media, and she was spotted as 'the next big thing' by US artist, Chris Brown.
Soon after, he reached out to her and used her voice in the single 'Shooter.' which opened doors for the singer.
She has soared since and went on to do collaborations with artists including Mawelele, Ntencane, Major League, Child Dadj, Lwandakhulu, Black Diamond, Cici, and Qwabe Twins topping radio charts.
In the early years of her teens, Naledi lost her mom Gugu Khumalo. The third born out of seven siblings was raised by their supportive father, Musa Myongwana who is also a musician.
Her sister, Nontokozo Mkhize, is a sensational Gospel star.
'Oh I love my siblings a lot, the relationship between them is normal, a mix of companionship, support, and also conflict but mostly support each other and with the regular siblings fights,' she says. They inherited their musical gene from both her parents.
'Both of my parents gave us the gift of music but the best singer was my mom. My dad used to play the guitar for us and my mom would sing.'
Naledi wishes her mom was around to see her success.
'I wish my mom was here,' she smiles.
'But I also believe that she is with me all the way. I would have not been here today, making something out of myself if she hadn't been there for me. I know she is watching over me.'
When times get tough, she recalls the advice her parents gave her before leaving home and reaching fame.
'My family told me to remain humble and be respectful. They said to never forget where I come from and to always put myself first.'
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Besides her siblings who are her support structure, she has women in the music business who have taken the role of being big sisters and mother figures in her life.
'I look up to Cici, she's such an amazing singer and she's my inspiration,' Naledi says.
'I wanna grow up to become her best version. I love her so much.'
Young, fun, and at times foolishly playful on social media, it's either you love her or hate her. However the 1.9 followers on TikTok, 800k+ on Instagram and 1.5 million on Facebook are proof, that she receives more love than hate.
She tells Drum, she is not phased by the negative criticism and tries to let it blow over.
'Most times, I don't care too much about what people say and sometimes I ignore comments and stay calm. But sometimes when I ignore them and do not reply to the negativity, I make situations worse. So I choose to stand up for myself and fight. I've made multiple mistakes, but I believe there's always room for improvement.'
One award down, several to go. This year she wants to see herself driving a massive car.
'I want to buy a business car which is a V class for my travels and tours. I also want to buy my family a beautiful home. That is my wish for this year,' she says.