I like following local reality shows and when I do so, I always look out for moments with a story in it. 

Well in this case, it was on a local singing competition where this woman, on the fourth spot, caught my attention. 

Meet 24 year old Amanda Antony, popularly known as Amanda Black of the ‘Amazulu’ fame. Her rise to stardom tale is one that instantly made her an inspiration in my books. 

Here is the post that honoured her as part of my women’s Month Appreciation series.

Day 4 of my Woman’s Month Appreciation series and today, I would like to dedicate it to 24 year old, Eastern Cape-born songstress, Amanda Antony popularly known as Amanda Black. 

Many may not recall that she took part on Idols SA for three seasons and only started making a name for herself on her third attempt during season 11 of the show in 2015. Even during that season, she was completely overlooked even for the coveted Top 16 spot. She was sent home and was distraught. Then a contractual dispute over one of the other contestants led to a spot to be available for Top 16. 

She then made it, by pure luck. Then progressed even to Top 10.

I remember one of her Top 10 performances on the show which many referred to as ‘the worst’ they have ever seen. She survived that round and was only eliminated from the show at the Top 7 round. 

Now I fast-forward to 2 years later – signed to Ambitiouz Entertainment, released her debut album in 2016 titled  ‘Amazulu’ which was certified Platinum in under a month. A beautiful album that is worth every cent and time to listen to and is one of my most-prized possessions. 

5 time 16th Metro FM award nominee of which she won 2. 

5 time 23rd SAMA nominee of which she won 4 and was one of the biggest winners of the night. 

Proof that your dreams, no matter where you come from or who you are, are still valid. And being eliminated from a show because of receiving less votes does not mean it’s the end of you and your career. For not letting that elimination round nor those nasty comments over her performances on the show, dictate to her. 

A very humble soul, so I have heard from someone close to me who has had the fortune of meeting her in person.  I am yet to meet her and tell her how wonderful and inspirational her success story is. 

Until then, I will allow this post to do that work for me. 

I pray that this be only the start of her blossoming career to come, one I will be keeping my close eye on. 

A very happy woman’s month to you! 

#AmandaBlack

#AvulekileNyanAmazulu