Tu Nokwe
Tu Nokwe is such a multifaceted South African artist that the only apt way to describe her is as Creator.
Tu is not only a legendary singer, actress, guitarist, composer and lyricist, but, in addition, she is a businesswoman deeply committed to children, community and social justice.
Raised in a family of musicians, Tu initially taught music to township kids through her Amajika Youth and Children's Art Project. She then traveled the world to hone her craft before returning to South Africa in the early '90s. Her 1996 album "Inyakanyaka" transformed her into a powerful innovator and a South African cultural legend.
Throughout her career Tu collaborated with top South African and international artists, made significant contributions to the arts and society and served as an inspiration to many. She has also been involved in acting, appearing in stage productions, the TV series "Shaka Zulu" in the ground-breaking role as King Shaka’s wife, and in the film "Red Scorpion." Her belief in the power of art led her to continue her family's Amajika Youth Project, empowering youth through music, dance, and drama during the Apartheid era. She has mentored students who have excelled in various fields. The cast of the hit Broadway musical Sarafina - which was Tu’s original concept - was made up almost entirely of Amajika students.
In addition to her music career, Tu founded the Traditional Music Project to preserve indigenous musical instruments and restore traditional values. Tu has also excelled as a motivational speaker, author, and life coach, sharing her wisdom through various tools and classes. Her accolades include The Robben Island Heritage Award, the President's Award, Thekwini Living Legends Award and the Canadian Dora Award for Outstanding Performance in "Obeah Opera."