AFDA proudly celebrates alumna Shekhinah on her nomination at the 32nd South African Music Awards (SAMA32), where her critically acclaimed album Less Trouble has been nominated in the Best Pop Album category. The nomination further cements Shekhinah’s place as one of South Africa’s most influential contemporary artists and highlights the continued impact of AFDA graduates across the creative industries.
The South African Music Awards remain the country’s premier celebration of musical excellence, recognising outstanding artistic achievement across a diverse range of genres. This year’s awards will return to the iconic Sun City Superbowl on 15 August 2026, bringing together the country’s leading musicians, producers and creatives for an evening celebrating the very best of South African music.
Known for her distinctive blend of pop, R&B and soul, Shekhinah has consistently pushed the boundaries of South African music. Since emerging as one of the country’s most exciting young voices, she has built an impressive career defined by artistic authenticity, powerful songwriting and genre-defining releases. Her latest album, Less Trouble, continues this trajectory, earning widespread acclaim for its polished production, emotional honesty and sophisticated sound.
The SAMA32 nomination for Best Pop Album is another milestone in a career already marked by platinum-selling music, chart-topping singles and numerous industry accolades. It also reflects Shekhinah’s commitment to artistic excellence and innovation, qualities that resonate strongly with AFDA’s philosophy of nurturing original storytellers and creative entrepreneurs.
As an AFDA alumna, Shekhinah exemplifies the diverse pathways available to graduates of The No.1 School for the Creative Economy in Africa. While AFDA is internationally recognised for producing award-winning filmmakers, television creators, performers and entrepreneurs, its alumni continue to make significant contributions across the broader creative economy, including the music industry.
AFDA congratulates Shekhinah on this outstanding achievement and wishes her every success at the 32nd South African Music Awards. Her continued accomplishments reinforce AFDA’s mission to develop world-class creative talent that shapes industries, tells compelling stories and contributes meaningfully to South Africa’s vibrant cultural landscape.