NYDA’s collaboration with DJ Zinhle’s Zee Nation Fest ruffles feathers

by Staff Bona

News that the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) will partner with DJ Zinhle for her Zee Nation Fest has ruffled feathers.

The event, on August 9, marks a milestone in DJ Zinhle’s 20-year career and will see the most iconic musical acts come together in a festival setting.

NYDA shared on X, (formerly Twitter) a collaboration between itself and the renowned DJ and businesswoman.

This partnership NYDA said, “seeks to empower young people by offering them experience.”

It added that the select group of participants would gain skills, knowledge, and networking opportunities with industry professionals.

Well here lies the rub!! DJ Zinhle, real name Ntombezinhle Jiyane, recently said: “The one thing about the SA youth is that they are not just unemployed but a lot of them are unemployable. They don’t have the skill that is required.”

These comments came as she said her company Era by DJ Zinhle was struggling to employ staff for their new branch in Witbank.

The renowned entrepreneur was lambasted on social media and sought to explain her true intention with her comments.

@therealdjzinhleAgain, I apologize to everyone who felt offended. Hope this makes sense.♬ original sound – DJZinhle

Peeps reacted with dismay to NYDA’s announcement.

@itumeleng_ba said: “hao I thought we all agreed nobody wants this? Wasn’t Zinhle saying we’re unemployable or something of the sort?”


NYDA then went on to explain their decision.


@MissMahlengy added: “Just say you are one of the key sponsors for this event, it’s not a partnership. Guys, c’mon. You cannot be taking SA’ns for a ride like this.

But NYDA, with a graphic, broke things down to show clarity.

Words: Fame Frenzy