Wandipha Thuthane (37), popularly known as DJ Wandi, is steadily carving her name into Bizana’s growing music scene. Born and raised in the area, she works at Shoprite during the day, but once she clocks out, she steps into a different world — one of DJ decks, studio sessions and Amapiano beats.
Unlike many artists who say they always knew music was their calling, DJ Wandi admits her love for it developed later in life. What began as an interest has now become a serious pursuit. She enjoys listening to Amapiano, especially the latest tunes from artists like Lameez and DJ Maphorisa, whose sound continues to inspire her own musical direction.
Raised in Monti location, she says her journey into music has surprised many people back home. While some fans are proud of her achievements, others still find it hard to believe that she is now a recording artist.
“Abantu base Monti baphila isintu,” she says. People from her community believe in studying, going to school and doing things the conventional way. Music is not always viewed as a reliable career path. Many still place their trust in professions directly linked to formal education.
“To get into music, you need money,” she explains, highlighting one of the biggest challenges she has faced. Studio time, equipment, production and marketing all require financial investment. For her, having a stable job has made a difference.
“Working at Shoprite is amazing,” she says. “I save money and reinvest it into my music.”
Determined to strengthen her credibility, DJ Wandi studied at Felaz Groove Entertainment in Durban, a reputable music academy that offers training in broadcasting, acting and DJing. Becoming a certified DJ was important to her. She wanted to prove to herself and others that she is serious about her craft.
She officially started DJing in April 2025 and has already released two singles. Her latest tracks, Khohlwa and Boss Lady, were completed in less than a month. However, because of the December holidays, their official release was delayed until January. She says her fans have responded with excitement and encouragement.
“Ayikho enye into ngaphandle kwemali,” she adds, returning to the reality that finances remain a constant hurdle. Yet she refuses to let that discourage her. Her advice to aspiring DJs and artists is simple: do not listen to negative voices.
“Don’t listen to what people say,” she says. “If you believe in it, go for it.”
Through discipline, sacrifice and belief in herself, DJ Wandi is proving that dreams do not have an expiry date. From the aisles of Shoprite to the DJ booth, she is showing that passion and perseverance can coexist — and that sometimes, the most powerful journeys begin after hours.
