Meet Zolani Mahola, the magnificent South African singer, actress, storyteller, and inspiration speaker who captivated hearts as the lead singer of pan-African music group Freshlyground for 17 years before launching her solo career as “The One Who Sings”.
In our latest interview, Zolani shares her profound insights on leadership that remains true to one’s authentic self, drawing from her extensive experience in the music industry and beyond.
She discusses the delicate balance between assertiveness and collaboration, finding inspiration in the music of soul legends like Nina Simone and Miriam Makeba, and her approach to maintaining engagement through continuous learning and unexpected sources of inspiration.
Zolani also offers valuable wisdom on building genuine relationships rather than mere networks, and shares practical advice for young women starting their careers: “Trust the process. There’s no rush to be everything at once.”
Read the full interview below and discover Zolani Mahola’s Guide To Leading Without Losing Your Authenticity.
How do you balance being assertive with being collaborative in leadership roles?
It is about being adaptive. There are times when I need to establish my opinion, but I understand that leadership also entails directing the team toward a common goal. The balance rests in being clear about my position while enabling others to comment. Collaboration, in my opinion, is not about ceding power; rather, it is about making room for new ideas and allowing collective energy to elevate what we are accomplishing.
Who is your go-to female musician for a quick energy boost when working?
I find a lot of energy in music that connects me to the soul. I go back to some of my roots with Nina Simone or even Miriam Makeba. But in moments of quiet focus, I often listen to artists like Lira, whose strength and grace resonate with me. It’s less about energy in the traditional sense and more about finding a source of calm, strength, and inspiration that carries me through my work.
How do you stay motivated and engaged in your job when facing routine tasks or plateaus in your career?
When you’ve been doing something long enough, the challenges shift. For me, staying engaged is about continually learning, not just in my field but in life itself. I seek inspiration in unexpected places, whether be it by the ocean or through the eyes of children and their playful spirit.
How do you build and maintain a strong professional network while staying authentic?
I focus on developing relationships rather than networks. It is essential that you present yourself authentically. Genuine connections are built on shared ideals and an awareness of each other’s abilities. I stay authentic by being careful with my time and energy, ensuring that the people I connect with share my mission and goal. Building relationships is a long-term investment rather than a short-term plan.
What practical advice do you have for young women just starting out their careers?
I would say: trust the process. There’s no rush to be everything at once. Take your time to understand what really matters to you and how you want to contribute. Surround yourself with mentors who challenge you and encourage you to grow. And don’t be afraid of the setbacks, they’re not failures, they’re lessons. The key is to be patient and to have the courage to evolve at your own pace.
