About Mzansi Youth Choir
Mzansi Youth Choir is a performance choir that represents the best of Sowetan Excellence.
The Mzansi Youth Choir was established with the aim of affording talented, underprivileged teenagers and young adults the opportunity to proficiently perform locally and abroad.
The word Mzansi means “south” in isiZulu and is also the township slang word for South Africa. The choir’s repertoire is an exciting assortment of South African music which incorporates elements of traditional music, pop and jazz.
The cultural heartbeat of South Africa is presented in three pillars:
Our Roots (traditional music),
Our Spirit (gospel and anthems),
Our Youth (current pop music).
About Our Team
Sidumo Nyamezele, Music Director
Sidumo Nyamezele completed his music and choral conducting studies at the Nelson Mandela University in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth, SA), becoming a sought-after adjudicator of choral competitions. He was also the winning conductor of the Folklore Section, at the World Choir Games 2019 with a 95% score. Sidumo conducted the World Youth Choir for two years whilst they toured extensively abroad, and is also involved in the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture’s Trainers Programme, guiding and lecturing aspirant conductors throughout South Africa, and conducting master classes and workshops globally. Currently, he is a member of the Music Department at St John’s School, Parktown, Johannesburg, and holds the position of Music Director of the Mzansi Youth Choir.
Alfred Phakathi, Artistic Director and Choreographer
Alfred Phakathi was the lead dancer and managing director of African Footprint which had 3 000 shows in Europe from 2000. Since his retirement as a professional dancer, he has been appointed as the Mzansi Youth Choir’s first Artistic Director and Choreographer in 2010.
He became a world leader in the new specialist space of choral choreography and Alfred is well known as the father of choral choreography in South Africa. He is also a freelance producer and artistic director of many corporate shows over Africa.
Our Journey
Our Gallery
