The best way to get to know Joburg is to hang out with a local. In an ongoing series, we chat each week to one of our favourite Joburg people to get the lowdown on what makes this city unique.
NOMSA MAZWAI (also known by her stage name Nomisupasta) is an award-winning alternative Afro-pop star, the general director of Soweto Theatre and an all-round creative. Born in 1985 to a school teacher and a journalist in Soweto she was raised in a home fuelled by Pan Africanism and her lyrics reflect both these politics and her playful optimism. We caught up with her as she released her latest single Losing Myself, and the crowds will get to see her perform at this year’s Afropunk festival to be held at Constitution Hill on December 30-31. Follow her on Facebook at Nomsa Mazwai, on Twitter and Instagram at @nomisupasta and on Youtube at Nomisupasta Media
What brought you to Joburg and makes you stay here? I was born here, travelled the world and the country and returned because of the pace, the vibe, the colour and the people.
Favourite Joburg suburb? Soweto, because the most beautiful people come from there. The born-to-do of Joburg are from Soweto.
Three things a visitor should not leave Joburg without experiencing: The Soweto Theatre, Constitution Hill and Vilakazi Street in Soweto.
One thing no one would expect to hear about Joburg? That the best jam session is held every Tuesday in Chiawelo Soweto and it’s called Sawubona Music Jams.
The most underrated Joburg sight or experience? Lebo’s Soweto Backpacker’s bicycle tours and #FunkItImWalking
(A fan of taking to the streets Nomisupasta got the attention of the United Nations through her FunkItImWalking blog, a personal initiative of hers to inspire a culture of walking in South Africa to promote a healthy life style, safety and the protection of the environment. She was even invited to perform at the UN General Assembly in New York).
Favourite restaurant or cafe? Native Rebels in Jabavu Soweto because of the music, the hustle and bustle of the taxis beneath you and the vibe.
Favourite bar or afterwork hangout? The Urban Grill in Pimville Soweto, it’s easy, smooth and fashionable.
Favourite place to shop? Locrate Market (pictured above) or Soweto Art and Craft Fair at Soweto Theatre because of all the local gems one can find there.
Favourite place to relax? Spa 88 in Parkhurst on 4th Avenue because I love getting my nails done at a salon that’s welcoming and always fun, especially when the owner Thami Dish is there.
Favourite Joburg person? I’m my favourite joburg person, and when you meet me, I’ll be your favourite Joburg person too! I’m always looking for new people and places to discover.
On a weekend you’ll find me … Search #SupaSoweto and you’ll find me.
Three words that describe this city …Vibrant, interesting and green!
Top tip for a first-time visitor to Joburg: Use Uber or walk to get around, especially in Soweto. It’s a great walking city .
Best things about Joburg: It’s where Africa meets, making this city the most diverse.
Worst things about Joburg: The city sleeps.
If you didn’t live in Joburg where would you like to live and why? New York, because that city never sleeps and I don’t either.