When she is not commanding the screen as an actress, Thuli Phongolo can be found behind the decks as a DJ — and now, she is confidently stepping into her own lane as a fully fledged music artist, marking yet another evolution in her dynamic career.
Actress, DJ, and now recording artist Thuli Phongolo has officially entered a new era with the release of her debut EP, a milestone that signals her artistic independence and creative maturity. The project represents more than just music; it is a reflection of her personal growth, lived experiences, and fearless self-expression.
At 32 years old, Thuli Phongolo, best known for her breakout role as Namhla Diale on Generations: The Legacy, is embracing her identity beyond acting. Her journey in the entertainment industry began remarkably early at just 15 years old when she made her television debut on SABC1’s popular youth drama Tshisa. From that moment, her passion and dedication were evident.
Her eagerness to learn and commitment to growth soon opened doors to presenting roles on Craz-e, as well as leading acting roles in productions such as Thula. These early opportunities laid a strong foundation for her career and sharpened her versatility in front of the camera.
Thuli Phongolo later rose to household-name status through Generations: The Legacy, before going on to feature in a number of acclaimed local productions including Makoti, The Republic, Rockville, and The Wife. Each role contributed to her artistic depth and strengthened her appreciation for storytelling in all its forms.
In 2017, her lifelong love for music took centre stage when she ventured into DJ’ing — a move that would ultimately redefine her creative direction. From being name-dropped in popular songs to appearing in music collaborations, her transition from DJ to recording artist felt both organic and inevitable.
On 31 October, Thuli Phongolo released her debut single Hai Suka, the lead track from her EP Avana. Featuring Nia Pearl and Leandra Vert, the song tells the story of an empowered woman reclaiming her power. It delivers a bold message encouraging women to be confident, fearless, and unapologetically themselves.
Her music is released under her newly established label, AVANA Records, which she describes as a creative home that allows her full artistic freedom and ownership of her sound.
Speaking to Radio 2000, Thuli Phongolo reflected on her journey, sharing that she has “always wanted to be in the entertainment industry” and feels fulfilled, finally releasing a body of work that is deeply personal, authentic, and aligned with who she is today.
