LIAM COVA

Liam Cova (Liam van der Heyde) is one of the standout success stories to emerge from the Beyond Busking Project. A gifted singer-songwriter and performer, Liam chose to pursue music as a full-time career in 2024 and has already achieved significant recognition on both television and radio. His latest single, “Worry Sea,” reached the Kfm Top 20 Chart, marking an important milestone in his rapidly growing career.

Liam has shared stages with respected South African artists including Craig Lucas, Mujahid George, Carletheia and Liam Burger, while continuing to build a loyal audience through his authentic songwriting and captivating performances. As a graduate of the Beyond Busking Project, he credits the programme with helping refine his craft and providing the confidence to pursue a professional career in music.

“Beyond Busking was an invaluable learning experience that connected me with brilliant minds in the industry. It refined my craft in so many ways and gave me the confidence to pursue songwriting professionally.”

Passionate about self-expression and human connection, Liam’s music explores vulnerability, personal growth and the deeper meanings of life. His original song “Kiss These Scars” reflects themes of acceptance and healing, inspired by the love and support that helped him overcome self-doubt and comparison with others.

Beyond music, Liam is also a committed conservationist who believes in the power of creativity to uplift communities and inspire positive change. Through his art, he encourages others to embrace authenticity, pursue their dreams and discover the courage to be themselves.

DHAHABU

Qondea Avril Mkansi, known professionally as Dhahabu, is a singer, songwriter, composer, performer, educator and creative entrepreneur whose work combines powerful storytelling with fearless artistic expression. A graduate of the Beyond Busking Project, Dhahabu has emerged as one of the programme’s most inspiring success stories, using music as a vehicle for healing, empowerment and social change.

In 2025, Dhahabu achieved international recognition when she was selected for the prestigious AmaGroove Global Residency, an international creative residency celebrating African heritage, collaboration and musical innovation. The selection marked another milestone in a career that continues to gain momentum both locally and abroad.

Born in Limpopo and trained in Musical Theatre at the Tshwane University of Technology, Dhahabu has performed in more than 20 theatre productions and numerous festivals across South Africa. She is also the creator of Afro Art Rock, a genre she has spent years developing, blending Afrocentric rhythms with contemporary global influences to create a sound that is uniquely her own.

Her powerful single ShereKhan attracted widespread attention for its courageous exploration of survival, healing and women’s empowerment. Inspired by her personal journey of overcoming abuse, the song transforms pain into a declaration of strength and resilience, giving voice to many who have experienced gender-based violence.

Reflecting on her experience in the Beyond Busking Programme, Dhahabu said:

“Beyond Busking became my compass — guiding me through uncharted parts of myself. It lit a fire in me and reminded me that I was always meant to go beyond the limits I once believed in.”

Alongside her artistic achievements, Dhahabu is a passionate educator and founder of KIDS Theatre, using the arts to empower young people and create opportunities for the next generation of performers. Through her music and leadership, she continues to inspire audiences with a message of courage, authenticity and transformation.

IVIWE SOUL

Originally from the Eastern Cape and raised in Strand, Iviwe began her musical journey at the age of eight when she was selected as a soloist in her school choir. That early moment sparked a deep connection with music, leading her to continue developing her voice through school, community performance and later as part of an a cappella group in Strand in 2018.

In 2021, Iviwe stepped into her solo career, performing around Cape Town and showcasing her growing versatility at venues including The Drama Factory in Somerset West. Her talent was further recognised in 2022 when she was nominated for Best Female Vocalist of the Year at the Look At God Music Awards.

After participating in the Beyond Busking Programme, Iviwe continued to build on her artistic foundation and went on to study Indigenous Music at the South African College of Music, University of Cape Town. Alongside her music studies, she freelances as a graphic designer and remains actively involved in community arts through the Lwandle Arts Forum.

Her original song, “Amandla,” released on digital platforms, is a deeply personal work shaped by a period of emotional struggle and renewal. Through the song, Iviwe transforms difficult experiences into a message of resilience, healing and creative strength. Her journey reflects the heart of the Beyond Busking Programme: using music not only to develop artists professionally, but also to unlock the power of creativity as a force for personal and social transformation.

Quote:

“Music gave me a way to turn pain into purpose. Through Beyond Busking, I discovered that my voice could heal, connect and inspire others.”