In the vibrant world of South African entertainment, few stories are as inspiring as that of Penny Ntuli, a dynamic DJ and emerging music artist. At just 27 years old, this talented young woman from Durban is breaking barriers and seizing opportunities, proving that the sky truly is the limit.
Penny recently made headlines with the release of her amapiano track titled “Sekuphel’ Isikhathi,” a collaboration with fellow Durban artist Mfana Kah Gogo. This move into music was unexpected for Penny, who admits that music was never on her original wish list. However, when the opportunity arose, she embraced it wholeheartedly. “To be honest, music was not on my wish list. I never thought that I’d do music in my life. But when the opportunity presented itself, I said why not. I’m young, full of energy and I must use it when I still can,” she shared. Her ambition is clear: she aims to explore every avenue available to her, aspiring to become a top producer or a hitmaker in the future.
Penny’s journey in radio began at Gagasi FM, where she gained recognition for her engaging personality. However, in early 2024, she made the bold decision to leave Gagasi FM due to a contractual disagreement and joined Jozi FM. This transition has proven fruitful; within just a month, she was nominated for the Best Star Radio Personality of the Year at the Shining Star Africa Awards 2024, an accolade she proudly took home. Now, she is also nominated for the Best Traditional Social Media Influencer of the Year at the South African Traditional Music Awards, further showcasing her multifaceted talent.
What sets Penny apart is her relentless work ethic and refusal to be confined by the limitations often placed on young artists. “I believe in working like an ant. I don’t want to complain about the lack of opportunities in the entertainment industry when I’m old and tired. I want to do it all now,” she stated. Her determination is evident in her decision to leave her comfort zone in Durban for the bustling opportunities in Johannesburg. “For now, I don’t regret leaving Durban for Joburg. I don’t regret leaving my radio job in Durban for another radio job in Joburg,” she said, emphasizing her commitment to pursuing her dreams without fear of judgment.
Despite her rapid ascent in the industry, Penny has faced her share of challenges. She has been involved in two car accidents in a short span, experiences that have profoundly shaped her outlook on life. “Those experiences taught me that life’s too short, and they motivated me to push even harder,” she reflected. Additionally, she has faced negativity on social media, with some users commenting on her appearance. Yet, Penny remains undeterred, asserting, “I’ve also been called ugly by social media, but that didn’t dent my confidence.”
Penny Ntuli’s journey is a testament to the power of ambition and resilience. As she continues to navigate the entertainment landscape, she is not just building a career for herself; she is also inspiring others to pursue their passions fearlessly. With her infectious energy and unwavering determination, there’s no doubt that Penny is just getting started. The sky is indeed the limit for this talented DJ and artist, and her story is one to watch as she continues to rise in the South African music scene.
