Zikhona Maxine Zonke: A Voice of Purpose, Passion, and Faith

Zikhona Maxine Zonke is a gifted gospel vocalist and faith-driven performer from Mfuleni, Cape Town, whose voice resonates with purpose, passion, and authenticity. Her musical journey began in her teens when she joined a local gospel group, sparking a lifelong calling to use her voice to uplift, heal, and inspire.

Over the years, Zikhona has graced numerous community stages, particularly through opportunities created by Afrika Tikkun’s Zolile Malindi Centre. There, her raw talent was nurtured and her commitment to music strengthened. In 2021, she took a bold step forward by receiving professional training at Rainbow Arts Organisation and Blackbox Theatre in Delft—an experience that sharpened her artistry and broadened her creative horizons.

In her featured video, Zikhona shares her journey through the Beyond Busking Project 2024, capturing her powerful evolution—from nervous auditionee to confident performer and storyteller. Through the programme, she received hands-on training in:

Songwriting

Vocal Training

Guitar Mastery

Musical Arrangement

Professional Studio Production

Personal Development

Zikhona reflects on the transformative impact of the programme: the moment she was selected, the confidence she built under the mentorship of acclaimed vocal coach Abigail Petersen, and the songwriting wisdom she absorbed from industry veteran Clive Ridgway. Her producer, Jonny Blundell, speaks of the joy and fulfilment in collaborating with such a grounded and purpose-led artist.

New Music Alert: “Unguye uThixo” – Out 30 May 2025

Zikhona’s debut single, “Unguye uThixo”, will be officially released on Friday, 30 May 2025, across all major streaming platforms. The track, a heartfelt expression of faith and gratitude, was written and composed by Zikhona herself and features an outstanding lineup of musicians:

– Vocals – Zikhona Maxine Zonke

– Drums – Kevin Gibson

– Bass – Nick Williams

– Keyboards – Blake Hellaby

– Guitars – Jonny Blundell

– Rhythm Section Recording – Andrew Rawbone Viljoen

– Mixed & Mastered by Vicente Espi

– Arranged & Produced by Jonny Blundell

– Recorded at Digital Forest Studios & Rootspring Studios

Pre-save “Unguye uThixo” now

Connect with Zikhona

Follow Zikhona Maxine Zonke to stay updated on her musical journey:

– Instagram: @zmzonke

– Facebook: @maxine.zonke

– TikTok: @maxinezonke

Acknowledgements

The Cape Town Arts Festival extends its deepest gratitude to the mentors and collaborators who continue to shape Zikhona’s growth:

– Clive Ridgway – Songwriting Mentor

– Abigail Petersen – Vocal Coach

– Bradley Prince – Guitar Mentor

– Fatima Dike – Personal Development Facilitator

– Lynne Holmes – Programme Director, Beyond Busking Project

The Beyond Busking Project 2024/2025 is a visionary initiative by the Ariva Arts Foundation and the Cape Town Arts Festival, funded by the National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC), the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), and the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme (PESP5). It is committed to empowering South Africa’s emerging creatives through meaningful artistic and professional development.

Video filmed and produced by Nur Felix Film Production