At 33 years old, Tsholofelo Nonkonyana is more than a gospel singer-songwriter — she is a living example of perseverance, faith, and the restorative power of music. Born and raised in Tumahole, Parys, her voice carries both the depth of life’s trials and the brightness of enduring hope.
A committed Christian since the age of seven, Tsholofelo’s love for God was nurtured early. “I grew up with my grandparents going to church, so I understood who God was even at that young age,” she reflects. Her childhood home was a lively gathering place, with family, laughter, and plenty of music. Surrounded by relatives who sang in choirs and a mother with a gift for melody, she absorbed the harmonies and rhythms that would later shape her calling.
But her journey has not been without heartbreak. In 2013, while studying civil engineering, she lost her mother suddenly — a moment that deeply affected her and forced her to pause her studies. In the years that followed, she faced further loss and personal battles with grief, anxiety, and depression.
In July 2019, tragedy struck again when Tsholofelo lost her beloved sister and young nephew in a devastating act of violence. The heartbreak was immeasurable, and with most of her close family — including her grandparents and uncles — already gone, she found herself navigating grief upon grief. Yet, even in that season of deep pain, music and her faith in God became her refuge and source of strength.
Just weeks before, she had been pursuing auditions, including a missed chance with gospel artist Lebo Sekgobela due to long queues and no accommodation in Johannesburg. But soon after, a friend told her about another audition in Vanderbijlpark — a moment that would change her path. “When Lebo picked me, I couldn’t hold back the tears. It wasn’t just about music — it was a moment that felt like God saying, ‘I see you.’”
From 2019 to 2023, she toured with Lebo Sekgobela, performing on major stages including Metro FM All White, Macufe, and Carnival City. Though her talent reached national audiences, Tsholofelo remained humble, often quietly surprised when people recognised her from television appearances.
Like many artists, the COVID-19 pandemic brought challenges. Yet her faith remained her anchor. Music became both her expression and her healing space.
Now stepping forward as a solo artist, Tsholofelo has released her first two singles — Ngomlandela and Icebo Lakhe — both available on all digital platforms. She continues to invest in her music despite the challenges of funding, supplementing her income through small business ventures, including selling Justine products and working toward launching a sound hire company.
Her songwriting process is deeply spiritual, often inspired by dreams. “Sometimes I dream of a concert and hear a song I’ve never heard before. I wake up and realise God just gave me that song.”
Looking ahead, she envisions establishing a youth centre in Parys — a place where young people can explore music, arts, technology, and life skills in a safe and inspiring environment. “Our youth are struggling with substance abuse because there’s just not enough to keep them engaged. I want to help create opportunities we never had.”
Tsholofelo’s journey is one of resilience, purpose, and gratitude. “I’ve faced many challenges, but I’ve also found my calling. I want my music to remind people that no matter what they’re going through, God is always present — and He is always good.”
From her beginnings in Tumahole to the national gospel stage, Tsholofelo Nonkonyana is proof that even in life’s most difficult seasons, a song of praise can still rise.
