Voice of inspiration: how blind singer Wendy Mnukwa captivated listeners on Lotus FM’s Gospel Hour

BORN blind in Welbedeacht, Chatsworth, 24-year-old Zameka Wendy Mnukwa refuses to let her disability define her.

With unwavering faith and a voice that moves people to tears, she's making waves on national radio while preparing for university - proving that disability is no barrier to divine purpose.

Born on the Bluff and raised in what she described as a “tough and challenging” childhood,

Wendy’s life only started to change when her mother found work as a domestic worker for Margaret Stevenson.

According to Wendy, Stevenson went on to become the “the woman who ensured I was educated and given shelter”.

 “She made sure I received specialised schooling and was always safe.”

Wendy was born blind but said she could differentiate between light and dark and saw shadows.

She said her early years were marked by love and acceptance.

“People never treated me as different. There was no stigma because I was blind. I was loved and adored,” she recalled fondly.

Wendy’s schooling journey started at the Arthur Blaxhall School for the Blind, and she later move on to the Zamokuhle Special School.

Here, she thrived in music, reading competitions, braille literacy and choir performances.

“My passion for singing was noticed by Sister Jackson, who often gave me platforms to showcase my voice,” she said.

Today, she continues worshipping at the Dominion Faith Prophetic Ministries, drawing inspiration from Prophetess Susan van Wyk.

This month, Wendy experienced her most defining moment – her national radio debut on Lotus FM’s Gospel Hour with Pastor Niven Lalmund.

“It was a truly unbelievable experience. It made me embrace God’s gift to me - my voice which heals people’s souls.”

Guiding her journey is occupational therapist and community activist, Leena Bachu, who has become both her mentor and sister-figure.

“Leena is an angel sent by God. She sees me as her little sister and promots my talent in the most beautiful way,” said Wendy.

Despite financial pressures, Wendy is preparing to start her education degree at Unisa next year - with NSFAS support.

“I love children. I want to help shape our future generation,” she said.

Her dream is to enter gospel competitions, attend the SAMAs and the Golden Crown Awards and pursue a second career as a gospel singer.”

Wendy’s message to others is simple but powerful: “Your disability does not define who you are. You can rise and shine to be the best God created you to be.”

National Disability Rights Awareness Month and International Day of Persons with Disabilities will be commemorated on December 3.

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