MAIN STAGE MC: ANELE TSHABALALA

helped his family by concluding challenges they faced.

The second single ‘Macala’ managed to reach number-one in South Africa, following the success of his lead single.

The album earned Mlindo three nominations at the 25th edition of the South African Music Awards; Best New Comer of the Year, Best Produced Album and Best Afro Pop Album.

How do you feel about being invited to Luju as the main stage MC?

This is my third time MCing the Standard Bank Luju Food & Lifestyle Festival and it’s always such an honour to be given such an incredible platform to do what I love! And as they say, third time’s a charm!

What are you most looking forward to during the festival?

I’m definitely looking forward to this year’s culinary programme. I authored a book in 2013 titled ‘Street Cuisine’, which profiled proudly African traditional meals prepared by boMake betfu. Anything that celebrates and shines a light on African culture is very close to my heart. Our traditional food systems and food preparation methods are unique and need to be documented. So it’s especially exciting to see emaSwati taking up these competitions and showcasing their talent on the Luju culinary stage. I’m also looking forward to the music line-up this year, it promises to be an explosive, memorable experience.

What do you promise to deliver while on stage?

We’ll have good music, good food, great fashion; it’s only fair that as an MC, I do my part in delivering a great show!!

What inspires you as an MC and how has it helped you in your line of work?

After the success of his single ‘AmaBlesser’, Mlindo revealed his debut album cover and its release date as it was made available for preorder on iTunes. His debut album ‘Emakhaya’ was released on September 21, 2018.

The album was certified platinum by RiSA and managed to get almost 45 million streams as of May 2019.

So many things inspire me but notably, it’s the opportunity to do what I love. The platform to showcase my various talents. I wear many hats and this one has got to be one of my favourite! Being an MC has helped me show other young women that it’s possible to be many things. It’s possible to be a Marketing Strategist and a Graphic Designer and an MC! (After all, the real magic happens at the intersections!) I want them to know that ALL of their dreams are valid and that they should take up space, confidently,

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whole-heartedly and should trust implicitly, in their abilities.

What set’s you apart from other MC’s?

What sets me apart? Definitely being able to pull from my various skillsets to deliver a unique experience. I love all forms of art and have a natural aptitude for all things creative. My first love in high school was theatre and drama, so I see the stage as another platform where I can showcase my many passions and talents. I love fashion, I love design, and I love the performing arts! And all of these have helped me immensely in crafting my personal brand as an MC.