In celebration of Women’s Month, we turn the spotlight on the remarkable Yoza Mnyanda-Siboto, a true trailblazer in multiple aspects of her life. Hailing from the quaint town of East London in the Eastern Cape, Yoza’s journey as a creative force began long before she found her rightful place in the worlds of film, music, and visual art.
Throughout her school years, Yoza’s love for storytelling and performance became evident as she actively participated in acting and directing plays. It was during this time that she discovered her profound affection for movies and television shows. As fate would have it, Yoza’s siblings left for university, leaving her alone to explore this newfound passion. Encouraged by solitude, she dived headfirst into the world of screen production at the University of Cape Town.
Determined to pursue her dreams, Yoza enrolled in the University of Cape Town, where she studied screen production. The knowledge and skills she gained during her time there laid the foundation for her future success. After graduating, Yoza, together with her husband, embarked on a music career under the moniker “Darkie Fiction.” Their innovative music and captivating visuals caught the attention of audiences, quickly establishing them as rising stars in the music scene.
As their music journey evolved, Yoza’s expertise in conceptualizing and creating visual content flourished. Her unique vision as a director led her to work on music videos for renowned artists such as Sho Madjozi, Shekinah, Focalistic, and Nasty C. Beyond the music realm, she lent her creative prowess to notable commercial projects for brands like Stimrol, OMO, Mini Copper, and MultiChoice.
Drawing from her diverse life experiences, Yoza imbues her work with authenticity and emotional depth. As a mother of two, a devoted wife, and a founder of “Wildflowerworx,” she balances her personal and professional life while leaving a lasting impact on those around her.
Moreover, Yoza takes on the role of an advocate and vocal voice for queers and femmes in the industry. Recognizing the disparity in recognition and opportunities they face, she passionately champions their talents and contributions, working tirelessly to empower underrepresented voices.
To celebrate Women’s Month, we chose the incredibly talented female photographer, Blackmilk, to capture Yoza’s essence for our monthly cover. Both Yoza and Blackmilk have been defying odds and thriving in their respective male-dominated fields, becoming inspirations for aspiring creatives aiming to penetrate the industry’s barriers.
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During the exhilarating photoshoot for the cover, the studio was filled with palpable energy and empowerment. Blackmilk skilfully guided Yoza, ensuring she felt comfortable in front of the camera. The two women supported and uplifted each other, creating an atmosphere of encouragement and celebration. Compliments and praise flowed freely, a testament to the powerful synergy between these exceptional artists.
Yoza’s artistic journey, characterized by determination, creativity, and advocacy, serves as a beacon of hope for aspiring female creatives. Her accomplishments break barriers and exemplify the importance of embracing one’s unique voice and experiences to shape powerful narratives.
Yoza Mnyanda-Siboto’s story exemplifies the remarkable strength and creativity that women bring to every facet of life. Her artistic endeavours, coupled with her advocacy for marginalized communities, redefine the landscape of the entertainment industry. As we celebrate Women’s Month, let us honour the trailblazers like Yoza and Blackmilk, who inspire us to challenge norms, break boundaries, and create a more inclusive world for all.
