Renowned Pan-African poet, praise singer, philanthropist, musician and businesswoman Bishop Jessica Mbangeni knew from a young age that she wanted to be a force for change.
Born in 1977 in the Eastern Cape, in a dusty village called Ngqamakwe, Jessica is a dynamic, multi-talented African woman with a passion for spreading the importance of cultural roots.
“My ultimate purpose is to bring people together in the name of ‘One Love, One Purpose, One God and One Destiny’, through cultural conversations fused in song, dance, poetry and fashion,” says Jessica.
She soon aims to launch her cultural exchange programme, African Caribbean Arts, Culture and Heritage, between Africa, the Caribbean Islands and the diaspora. “It’s still in its feasibility stage, but we have buy-in from Jamaica,” she confirms.
Jessica reinforced her role as custodian of African heritage in April when she was invited to join the SA Embassy and Consulate General in Washington DC and New York respectively, for their Freedom Day celebrations. Her head-turning traditional wear, powerful voice and inspired praise poetry ensured a fitting commemoration of South Africa’s first democratic election.
An ordained bishop committed to non-denominational and non-institutional teachings, her message at both events was clear: As a global community, it is time to draw on our faith to ensure peace and tranquillity and to silence the guns across the world.
Grounded by cultural roots She believes her messages catalyse meaningful dialogue about the importance of honouring our past, present and future.
“People respect the role of an imbongi (traditional poet/praise singer) because it is prophetic. It heals and has the power to unite people. When people unite, the world will live in peace and love,” she explains.
Jessica says it has been rewarding to see how indigenous cultures have unfurled in the new SA and she is proud of the role she has played in promoting the country’s ancient roots and creating awareness about patriarchy, which is still prevalent in the country.
“I raised my voice through my poetry and songs and challenged the status quo.” Although well-travelled, Jessica’s roots are firmly anchored in African soil, thanks largely to her rural childhood and grandmother’s vivid storytelling.
She became a domestic worker at 17, before studying part-time at the Eastern Cape Technikon. Johannesburg, the City of Gold, soon called her name, however, and she abandoned her studies to see if she could make a name for herself in music there. Instead, she was again forced by circumstances into domestic service.
Her major break came when she joined the internationally renowned Soweto Gospel Choir and toured the United States, Britain, Europe and Australia.
The mom of two now lives in Johannesburg, where her indigenous clothing factory and store, KwaNtu Afrocentric Designs, is located. “KwaNtu Afrocentric Designs promotes a group of artists and crafters who live in rural areas, commissioning them to work for corporate companies. We also make costumes for movies, work with stylists for high-profile artists, and are image consultants for public figures,” says Jessica. She is a firm believer that heritage is a commodity that can uplift small business crafters to become mainstream art businesses, and the Jessica Xa Mbangeni Foundation is building an innovation hub to help ensure this.
Jessica also has her own record company, KwaNtu Entertainment Designs, and has produced many award-winning albums. She is currently on tour promoting I am an African, which was inspired in Jamaica and the Caribbean Islands.
“It speaks to address the verity of African people who, I hope, will overcome the adversities and challenges confronting the continent to ultimately achieve cultural, economic, scientific and spiritual renewal.”
