In Venda, local music promotion has grown steadily in recent years, thanks in part to the work of Ndamulelo Budeli. Based in Tshenzheni under the Tshithukhe traditional authority, Budeli has been involved in organising live events and coordinating performances by both national and regional artists.
Budeli’s work extends beyond the stage. He has supported youth initiatives, donating equipment to sports teams, providing sanitary towels to schools, and helping young people access drivers’ licences and security training. In 2025, six young people benefited from these efforts.
In his role as a promoter, Budeli matches artists to events based on audience expectations and trends. He has organised shows featuring acts such as Uncle Waffles, DJ Maphorisa, Makhadzi, Focalistic, King Monada, Young Stunna, Black Motion and Zola 7, and has facilitated some artists’ performances abroad.
Budeli says maintaining trust and reliability between artists, venues and organisers is key. He also highlights challenges in the local music industry, including competition for bookings and a lack of collaboration among home-grown artists.
Looking ahead, he aims to attract international acts, such as Black Coffee, to Venda while supporting the growth of a more sustainable local music ecosystem.