Upcoming EP marks new chapter for NPO founder and artist Leepearl

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At 26, Phelokazi “Leepearl” Mdashe has already spent half her life refining a voice shaped by opera training and township rhythms.

Now, the Engcobo-born singer and songwriter is entering what she describes as a new phase in her career, with a fresh record label deal, new music on the way and a growing foundation inspired by personal tragedy.

Originally trained in opera during primary school, Mdashe has since transitioned into the lekompo and gqom genres, blending classical discipline with contemporary township sounds.

Speaking to the Dispatch, Mdashe said her musical journey began at a young age.

“I started singing as a child. Opera taught me discipline, but Lekompo and Gqom let me speak in a language my community understands,” she said.

She made her official debut in about 2022 and secured an early breakthrough when one of her singles was featured in the Netflix film, Collision.

Mdashe said her music drew inspiration from her Xhosa roots, the contrast between classical and street sounds, and her desire to uplift others through her work.

Beyond music, she is also the founder of the Save a Girl Child Foundation, launched on October 23 2023, on her birthday.

The organisation donates sanitary towels and school shoes to pupils in rural communities, aiming to address some of the practical challenges that keep girls out of school.

Amalinda-based musician Pelokazi “Leepearl” Mdashe is preparing to release her latest four-track extended play (EP), with the title track Zaka, on Friday. Born in Ngcobo 26 years ago, the artist blends Lekompo sounds with isiXhosa and Venda storytelling in her music. She said her music was firmly established in her lived experiences. Her upcoming single is part of a broader, second EP project that she has been working on, with the official EP launch set for April 5. “Zaka is a song about hustling and working hard to earn money,” she said. “It speaks to the everyday struggles that many young people face, trying to survive and make something of themselves.” The track, which she wrote on February 15 2026, is the second song on a four-track EP. Despite being relatively new in the industry, Mdashe is no stranger to the studio. Other songs include Ndiwawe, Sezobuya and Anawo Amandla. She began her musical journey in 2022 and quickly found her balance, even landing an opportunity to contribute to the soundtrack for the Netflix film Collision. “That was a big moment for me, because it opened my eyes to what is possible in this industry.” At the time, she was signed to Del Productions, owned by Richard Kabuya, where she gained valuable experience and exposure. Since then, Mdashe has continued to grow as an independent artist, working closely with Man B Entertainment, which is now supporting her musical journey. Her EP will feature other songs such as Uliphakade lam, featuring Man B, Isilo samakhosi, and Ithongo lam, featuring MasterDee. I realised there are many people who can relate to my story, and music became the best way for me to tell that story and connect with others Through these tracks, Mdashe explores themes of identity, spirituality and perseverance, all while staying true to her unique sound. She said the inspiration behind Zaka came from her own life, balancing the pressures of hustling while also trying to further her studies. “I realised there are many people who can relate to my story, and music became the best way for me to tell that story and connect with others.” The song features Kushi Sings, adding a different layer to the track, while another collaborator, Anonymous RSA, has also contributed to the project. Mdashe believes these collaborations bring diversity and richness to her music and will help her reach a wider audience. Her target audience is broad. “It’s for everyone; it includes young people and adults. Anyone who understands what it means to work hard and chase a better life.” As she prepares for the release, Mdashe is hopeful about what lies ahead, as she dreams of growing her audience, securing more performances and eventually collaborating with artists beyond SA’s borders. “I want more plays, more gigs and more international collaborations,” she said. With her determination and a clear sense of purpose, Mdashe is part of a new generation of artists who are using music not just for entertainment but as a tool for storytelling and connection. Mdashe said Zaka stood as a reflection of resilience and a reminder that behind every dream was a story of hard work, sacrifice and hope. Click here to join the Daily Dispatch’s WhatsApp channel and get the latest news delivered straight to your phone Daily Dispatch

Mdashe said the foundation was born out of grief following the death of her sister.

“What inspired me to start the foundation was when my sister was killed by her boyfriend.

“I felt so sad, and I thought of other girls out there — ukuba baphila njani.

“The better way for me to support girls was to open my foundation,” she said.

She said the foundation had since become a major focus alongside her music career, with outreach efforts centred on Engcobo’s Entibaneni area.

In March 2025, Leepearl joined Man B Music Entertainment, owned by entrepreneur and entertainer Mlindelwa Tyekana, a move she said helped accelerate her early career growth.

A year later, in April 2026, she signed with Asanda Empires, marking what she believes is another major step forward in her career.

Mdashe said she was currently working on a new single ahead of the release of a five-track EP planned for June.

“I’m working on a single for now, but later in June I’m planning to drop my EP, which will be made up of five songs.

“My aspiration in music is to heal people through my sound.

“I want to inspire aspiring musicians from rural towns like Engcobo to be confident, believe in themselves, and know that dreams do come true.”

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