Picture: BISA Advisory Board members/Supplied
By REGINALD KANYANE
14 June 2026 – The Basadi in Music Awards (BIMA) celebrates five years of championing, recognising and empowering women in music, the organisation is proud to announce the appointment of a distinguished Advisory Board comprising some of Africa’s most accomplished leaders across music, media, business, governance, fashion, healthcare and the creative industries.
BIMA said this appointment marks a significant milestone in the evolution of the Basadi in Music Awards can as the platform continues to expand its influence beyond South Africa and strengthen its position as a leading Pan-African platform dedicated to celebrating and advancing women in music.
The founder of Basadi in Music Awards, Hloni Modise-Matau said the BIMA Advisory Board serves as a distinguished collective of industry leaders, creatives, executives and advocates who provide strategic guidance, insight, and support to advance the mission of the organisation. Modise-Matau said the Board plays a critical role in safeguarding the integrity, credibility and long-term vision of the Awards by offering expertise on industry trends, governance, stakeholder engagement and opportunities for growth.
“Through their collective experience, members help ensure that the Awards continue to celebrate, elevate, and empower women across all sectors of the music industry. As ambassadors of the Basadi in Music Awards, Advisory Board members will champion the recognition of women’s achievements, promote inclusivity and excellence, strengthen industry partnerships, and support initiatives that drive meaningful change within the South African and African music landscape.
“The Advisory Board’s contribution ensures that the Basadi in Music Awards remains a respected and impactful platform dedicated to honouring the remarkable women who shape, influence, and transform the music industry,” she said.
Modise-Matau further said the Board brings together a remarkable collective of women whose expertise, leadership, and influence have shaped industries, inspired communities, and contributed meaningfully to Africa’s cultural and economic landscape. She added that their role will be to provide strategic guidance, industry insight, and leadership as BIMA enters its next chapter of growth, impact and continental expansion.
“This announcement comes on the heels of another major milestone for the organisation. Following the closure of nominations for the 2026 Basadi in Music Awards, BIMA recorded its highest number of nominations since inception, demonstrating the growing reach of the platform and the increasing recognition of women making significant contributions to the music and entertainment industries across Africa.
“Nominees for the 2026 Basadi in Music Awards will be officially announced later this month. The BIMA Advisory Board comprises Yvonne Chaka Chaka, who is affectionately known as the “Princess of Africa”. Chaka Chaka is one of the continent’s most celebrated music icons, philanthropists and humanitarians,” said Modise-Matau.
She said with a career spanning more than four decades, Chaka Chaka has used her platform to champion education, health advocacy, women and youth empowerment, becoming one of Africa’s most respected cultural ambassadors and global voices. Modise-Matau said another board member is Dr Linah Ngcobo, who is a legendary South African music icon, pastor, cultural leader and community builder with over 40 years of influence in music, ministry and mentorship, known for principled leadership and nurturing generations across the creative and social sectors.
“Other members include Dr Mpho Phalatse, Janine Starkey, Dr Kina Nhlengethwa, Lerato Matsoso, Penny Bouwer, Antos Stella, Yolanda Sangweni, Lala Tuku, Sibu Mabena and Manaileng Maphike. The establishment of the Advisory Board represents a defining moment in the organisation’s journey.
“As we celebrate five years of the Basadi in Music Awards, we are intentional about building a sustainable institution that will continue to champion women in music for generations to come. This Advisory Board brings together extraordinary leaders whose collective experience, wisdom and passion for Africa will help guide the next chapter of our growth,” she said.
Modise-Matau said they are honoured to have these remarkable women walk this journey with them as they continue creating opportunities, driving impact and elevating women across the music and creative industries.
The Guardian 