Long a fixture on the South African entertainment scene, Unathi is the modern-day, African Renaissance Woman. The singer/songwriter, Idols SA judge, radio host and entrepreneur continues to fly the South African flag high as she garners one international accolade after another.

Musically, Unathi has stunned audiences from all walks of life. Performing for the United Nations delegates, she evoked such strong emotions that legendary producer Quincy Jones gave her a standing ovation before joining her on stage, mid-performance, to sing her praises.

She’s also shared the stage with icons like John Legend, Yossou N’Dour, Chaka Khan and D’Banj. Her accomplishments on home turf are just as impressive and they include playing at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival. She’s also dazzled audiences at Standard Bank Joy of Jazz.

One of her proudest achievements however is composing her song, “Sgubhu” which was featured on the soundtrack for the Academy Award-winning film ‘Tsotsi’. And she’s one of the greatest radio personalities of our time, co-hosting Metro FM’s Breakfast Show with the legendary Glen Lewis for 10 years!

After two decades of slaying, it’ll be fascinating to see how she continues to push the bar and reinvent herself. One thing’s for sure though: Unathi, is a proudly South African treasure.

“We listen to what you want,” she says about Idols SA, citing the fact that even overseas-based South Africans could be considered as contestants this season.