Malu-soul to world

My name is Malusi Zungu. I’m 21 years old, from Hillcrest, and currently studying at AFDA on a scholarship.

This year, I was blessed with an opportunity that changed my life. My vocal coach, Alley Kietzmann, believed in me so deeply that she paid for my entire SACOPA entry, allowing me to compete in Rustenburg — something I could never have afforded on my own. By God’s grace, I won five gold medals and one silver, earning the honour of representing Team South Africa at the 28th Annual World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) 2026 in Las Vegas, USA. I will be competing in five categories: World Music, Country, Jazz, Open, and Contemporary.

This opportunity is the biggest moment of my career, but it’s also deeply personal. I’ve never been the kid who had many chances — but every opportunity I got, I held onto it and made it count. I do this not only for myself, but also for my late father, who always believed in my voice. If I make it to WCOPA, I won’t just be singing for me. I’ll be singing for my dad, my mom, everyone who has supported me, and every young dreamer...