Joy of Jazz’s Ignite Her Soul X-Perience Celebrates Women and the Legacy of the iconic Mam’Letta Mbulu Her Story. Her Music. Her Legacy
Following the remarkable success of the inaugural Ignite Her Soul X-Perience last year — where music lovers came together to applaud the incomparable talent of singer/songwriter Lira, the celebration once again returns to present a powerful new chapter.
On Sunday, August 24, the Ignite Her Soul X-Perience shines its spotlight on one of South Africa’s impeccable icon — the legendary Mam’Letta Mbulu, whose voice and spirit have inspired generations across the globe.
With her timeless songs woven into the fabric of South Africa’s cultural story, Mam’Letta Mbulu stands as the perfect muse for this year’s celebration, embodying both the spirit of resilience and the joy of creative expression.
This commemorative spin-off from the famed Joy of Jazz, staged in honour of Women’s Month, will be hosted at the Thaba Eco Hotel in Johannesburg and embodies more than just performances. The do honours the contribution of women across creative, corporate and advocacy spaces.
Through music, dance and storytelling, the day event seeks to celebrate women’s achievements, empower voices, promote gender equality, and inspire future generations to continue building on the legacy of those who came before them.
At the heart of this year’s celebration is recognising the life and work of a giant who has graced stages around the world with her rich voice, blending traditional South African sounds with jazz, soul and gospel influences.
Known as the “roots lady”, Mam’Letta Mbulu’s collaborations with international greats such as Harry Belafonte, Cannonball Adderley and Quincy Jones positioned her as a cultural ambassador for South Africa during a time when the nation’s voices were often silenced. To celebrate her in 2025 is to celebrate strength, global recognition, and the timeless power of women’s creativity.
Earlier this year, in April, she was further honoured with an honorary Doctor of Music degree by Nelson Mandela University at the age of 82.
While the event pays homage to one of South Africa’s most beloved icons, it also opens space for dialogue and inspiration.
By highlighting Mam’Letta Mbulu’s extraordinary career alongside other female trailblazers, the gathering affirms the profound contributions of women across fields, creating a platform where challenges and triumphs are shared openly.
Ignite Her Soul X-Perience underscores the importance of inclusivity and equality in the arts and beyond, while aiming to spark ambition among young women who will be in attendance—from students and emerging creatives to youth leaders and scholars who are passionate about shaping the future.
Guests will enjoy a natural harvest table experience, enhanced by an earthy, multi-colour aesthetic featuring candles, crockery and floral décor, with a palette inspired by warm browns, soft greens, muted terracottas, beiges and deep neutrals.
This vibrant gathering, with no interludes, will see singers weaving together a storyline of a woman’s perseverance, all delivered through the gift of music and performance.
With powerful voices from the likes of Brenda Mtambo, Zawadi Ya Mungu, Judith Sephuma and Nokukhanya Dlamini, and narration and poetry courtesy of Thuto Gaasenwe - attendees are invited to be fully immersed in an afternoon of inspiration, backed by the powerhouse sounds ensembled and curated by Titi Luzipo.
This year aims to deepen the narrative of women empowerment by paying homage to a matriarch whose influence transcends borders.
“Being recognised in this way at my age, after a lifetime of sharing our stories through music, is truly humbling. From standing among those who have shaped our culture abroad to helping shape our own musical heritage here at home, I am reminded that anything is possible — and I hope it reminds everyone of that too. This honour is also a call for all of us to continue using every stage and platform to uplift, inspire, and share the joy that music brings,” said Mam’Letta Mbulu.
Mantwa Chinoamadi, the CEO of T-Musicman and Producer of the Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival, shares that honouring Mam’Letta Mbulu is about honouring her work through music that has shaped South Africa’s cultural landscape in profound ways.
“It is about honouring the lasting impact she has had on South Africa as a whole. Her creativity, dedication, and ability to tell our stories through song have opened doors for artists and inspired communities across the country,” said Chinoamadi.
The Ignite Her Soul X-Perience wraps up Women’s Month in style, reminding us of the power and brilliance of women everywhere — guaranteed to leave every attendee inspired to carry that spirit forward in their own lives.
Standard Bank Joy of Jazz Festival Dates: 26, 27 and 28 September 2025
Venue: Sandton International Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa
Tickets are available at TICKETMASTER from R1 350.
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