Mqanduli-born award-winning gospel artist, Samkelo Ngqamza, has been nominated for yet another award, the Mzansi Arts and Media Awards (Mama).
Ngqamza already has three awards under his belt, including Best Gospel Album from Gabriel Global Awards, Best Gospel Artist from the Eastern Cape Music Awards, and Artist of the Year from the Mzansi Traditional and Cultural Music Awards.
Ngqamza said he grew up a gospel music lover, adding that it is the one type of music that strengthens one’s soul. He said he released his first solo album, Ukhona uThixo (God is alive), in 2017, with a career spanning eight years.
“I’m born of a single parent with a mental disability, so I saw it fitting that I get myself closer to God. This is because I had no-one to discipline me, and I knew that God would discipline me, and He does that when you go astray,” said Ngqamza.
The 42-year-old father of one is also a comedian, does MC duties, and is a motivational speaker.
“Samkelo is the kind of person who doesn’t give up on things he wants; for an example, schooling. I went to school at the age of 15, and I matriculated at 27 years. Then I did my diploma in 2011, and completed it in 2013 at age 31. So for those who think they are late for school, that is me,” he said.
Ngqamza currently works as a sales advisor for a furniture shop in Mthatha.
