Witbank born Zama Khumalo, 19, cried tears of joy as she was announced the 16th winner of the Idols SA following a fierce finale which saw over 20 million votes cast.
Following the big announcement (20 million votes were cast), Zama, 19, broke into tears during the televised live show.
As South Africa’s newest music idol, Zama walks away with a cool R1 million, a recording deal from Kalawa Jazmee, R150 000 worth of the latest Samsung products, the all-new Toyota Starlet 1.4, R100 000 worth of fashion from Truworths, a Kymco Xciting 400 scooter worth R120 000 and R80 000 worth of musical instruments from Yamaha.
Ten months ago, Zama and Mr Music joined hundreds of young South Africans who dreamt of becoming the next South African Idol. Today, that dream came true for Zama.
The Witbank-born winner took the leap to audition after encouragement from her loved ones. Despite her shy demeanour, she made it clear that she had the stage presence and star power to reach the top as this year’s Idol SA competition, with some of her performances bringing tears to judge Unathi Nkayi and praises from Somizi Mhlongo-Motaung.
With more than 20-million votes cast over the past week, tonight’s announcement came at the end of a musical feast that brought together some of the most renowned Mzansi acts all on one stage, showcasing the best talent South Africa has to offer.
Performers included last year’s Idols SA winner Luyolo Yiba, crowd favourite DJ Zinhle and Loyiso, Cassper Nyovest, Busiswa, Kamo Mphela, Reece Madlisa & Zuma, Ami Faku, Vusi Nova and not forgetting the Mzansi Gay Choir.
The night belonged to this year’s new talent, with the top 10 also returning for one last chance to perform on the Idols stage – and of course, lend their voices to support Zama and Mr Music.
Mr Music does not leave the stage empty-handed. The young man, who stood in a queue for more than 24 hours to get an opportunity to audition, walks away with R50 000 in cash from Samsung, R50 000 in cash in an Old Mutual Money account and R50 000 worth of fashion from Truworths among others.
With this season wrapped up, the hunt will soon be on for the 17th Idol – but with one significant change. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic – which resulted in this year season flighted without live audience – all auditions will be held online.
Hopefuls will need to record themselves and send a clip to Idols to throw their name in the hat to follow in the footsteps of Zama. Watch this space for more details.
Idols SA season 16 is on Mzansi Magic, DStv Channel 161 on Sundays at 5pm. For more information visit http://www.idolssa.tv
