Award-winning rapper Kwesta returned to his hometown of Katlehong on Mandela Day as part of a community outreach initiative led by Sony Music Africa at the Break-Through Centre, an organisation that has spent years supporting children and young people through education, mentorship and development programmes.
The initiative saw Sony Music Africa donate to the centre through contributions made by its employees, with Kwesta matching the employee donation through a personal contribution.
For the rapper, whose real name is Senzo Vilakazi, the visit was a deeply personal one.
“It’s a little personal for me because my parents raised me in this community, and initiatives like Break-Through Centre give hope to this very community,” said Kwesta.
Beyond the financial contribution, employees from Sony Music Africa spent the day interacting with children at the centre, while the company’s artists Mlindo The Vocalist, Dynamic Duo and Tumi Musiq performed and shared messages of encouragement with the youngsters.
The Break-Through Centre, based in the heart of Katlehong, has become a pillar of support for many families in the area by providing a safe space where children can access educational assistance and mentorship while being encouraged to pursue their ambitions.
Sony Music Africa’s People Experience Manager, Chenayi Mukaro, said Mandela Day serves as a reminder that lasting change begins with ordinary people choosing to make a difference.
“Mandela Day reminds us that meaningful change starts with ordinary people choosing to make an extraordinary difference. Seeing our employees come together alongside Kwesta and our artists is a powerful reflection of what can be achieved when we unite behind a shared purpose,” she said.
Mukaro added that the music company remains committed to giving back to the communities that have helped shape South Africa’s music industry.
“We are proud to use the power of music, our people and our platform to make a meaningful difference in the communities that continue to shape South African culture.”
The Mandela Day initiative forms part of Sony Music Africa’s broader community investment efforts, with the company continuing to partner with organisations that create opportunities for young people beyond music and help build stronger, more connected communities.
