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[#WomenInBiz] Q&A with Zolani Mahola

By Ruth Cooper

13 Aug 2015

Zolani Mahola, the powerhouse and voice behind the ever-popular band Freshlyground, chats about Women's Month, as well as what it means to be a powerful woman in South Africa.

Who is your biggest influence/role model/icon?

That might be my dad, actually. I admire his humanity.

Any local powerful women you particularly admire?

Currently, Thuli Madonsela definitely sits in the Queen Bee seat for me.

What's your biggest personal achievement to date?

One of my biggest achievements has been setting my mind to losing nearly 30kg and achieving said goal.

What's your favourite thing about being a woman?

I love that it's who I am and that I didn't really have a choice either way. It can be confusing when you're born one way and have always felt yourself another. So I like that it feels right to be me.

Based on your experience, what advice would you give to women pursuing a career in music?

I would advise anyone thinking of pursuing a career in music to get to know their craft well, to be prepared to work extremely hard and to surround themselves with people they can really trust.

Do you think its important having a month dedicated to women?

Yes, I think it's a reminder that women have come far in terms of emancipation across most levels, but that there are many places where the ceiling is still way too low.

What is the significance of Women's Month in SA?

I think that for a time we celebrate those women who have excelled in their fields or have been exemplary in some way. I also think the brutality of our society comes to the fore as "women's issues" are brought to the fore.

What is the role of feminism in SA in 2015?

Feminism has the same role in this year as in all years. Women hold a lot of power and agency. We sometimes forget.

What is your message for Women's Month?

There's only one of you. Be that person.

What's next for you and Freshlyground?

I have a few exciting things in the pipeline that I can't mention yet! As for Freshlyground, we had a fantastic tour in North America recently and released a single called Don't Leave Me. If you haven't seen the video you're missing out. We are working on our follow-up single for the end of the year.