Unathi Nkayi is an accomplished event host whose dynamic stage presence, authenticity, and warmth make her a standout emcee for events of all scales. With a celebrated career in entertainment, broadcasting, and music, Unathi brings charisma, cultural fluency, and emotional intelligence to every event she hosts.
In her role as an emcee, she takes the lead in shaping the tone and energy of the program opening with confidence, engaging the audience throughout, and ensuring seamless transitions between speakers, performances, and segments. Her strong communication skills, combined with an intuitive understanding of diverse audiences, allow her to read the room and adapt in real-time. Whether she’s commanding the stage at a corporate gala, awards evening, or public celebration, Unathi delivers a heartfelt and high-impact experience that leaves a lasting impression.
Unathi Nkayi (formerly Msengana) is one of South Africa’s most influential entertainers — a singer, actress, radio host, and emcee with over two decades of experience. A Rhodes University and University of Utrecht graduate, she began her career presenting Castle Loud and later joined YFM, cementing her as a household name.
As a judge on Idols SA and award-winning musician, Unathi’s charisma and professionalism have made her a favorite choice for high-profile events. Her performances and hosting style blend emotion, inspiration, and sophistication, whether engaging corporate audiences or commanding national broadcasts. With her strong reputation, Unathi offers an unmatched blend of credibility, artistry, and audience connection.
Unathi Msengana professionally known as Unathi Nkayi is a South African singer, radio host and actress. A Rhodes University Journalism and Drama graduate and a University of Utrecht International Media studies graduate. Unathi moved to Johannesburg in 2001 becoming a presenter for Castle Loud and then moved onto the YFM platform.
The singer, songwriter, Idols Judge, mother and all-round modern African woman released her sophomore album in 2008 titled “In Honour” which reached Gold status. She embarked on a personally financed tour called “Unathi & Friends” to strengthen South African collaborations but to also donate some of the funds to youths in need of financial aid to further their studies.
Unathi Nkayi has also performed for The United Nations, evoking such strong emotions and presence that legendary producer Quincy Jones, stood up in the audience to give her a standing ovation and proceeded to join her on stage during her performance to sing her praises.
She has shared the stage with international greats such John Legend and Yossou Ndou and One of her proudest achievements is writing her song “Sgubhu” which is on the soundtrack for the Oscar winning movie “Tsotsi” But this is just the beginning. She also co-hosts the biggest drive time show in South Africa with the great Glen Lewis.
Over the years she has collected a string of accolades that have stamped her as one of the most influential women in entertainment. In 2003, Unathi Nkayi walked away with two awards at the Metro FM Music Awards, for Song of The Year and Best Dressed Artist. 2004 & 2005
She was named as one of the Top Ten people in Media by The Star newspaper and was named as the most promising woman in media at the MTN Media Awards, hosted by Media Magazine. Unathi Nkayi has also been nominated twice at the South African Music awards.
Her most recent accolades, being voted as South Africa’s Best Female at the Annual Metro FM Music Awards and nominated for Best Urban Pop Album at the MTN SAMA’s
This young lady continues to reinvent herself through the years and with only ten years of experience under her belt, it is evident that South Africa has given birth to a true gem, Unathi.
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This episode of Afternoon Express features Unathi Nkayi as the central guest, offering an in-depth look at her journey as an artist, mother, and media figure. The conversation explores her early life, rise to fame, and lessons learned from her years in radio and television. She reflects on her experience as a woman in the entertainment industry, the importance of authenticity, and how vulnerability fuels creativity.
Throughout the show, Unathi performs selected songs that underscore her passion and emotional depth. She shares moments of laughter and introspection with the hosts, connecting deeply with both studio guests and viewers. The program closes with a message of empowerment — encouraging audiences to embrace their true selves and live with purpose, reinforcing Unathi’s role as an inspirational voice in South Africa’s cultural landscape.
03:20 – Unathi joins the hosts and discusses her early career
12:45 – Reflections on music, motherhood, and identity
26:10 – Live performance segment
36:40 – Conversation on personal growth and purpose
47:15 – Audience Q&A and life advice
The 2011–2012 Unathi Msengana music video captures her at the height of her creative expression — a performance driven by emotion, storytelling, and authenticity. The video opens with soft instrumentals and moody visuals that set an introspective tone. As Unathi begins to sing, her voice carries deep emotion, telling a story of love, hope, and perseverance. The cinematography alternates between performance shots and narrative sequences that mirror the song’s message, creating a moving visual journey.
Throughout the video, Unathi’s stage presence reflects both strength and vulnerability, hallmarks of her artistry. The final moments fade on a powerful vocal note, underscored by visuals of resilience and connection — reminding viewers why she remains one of South Africa’s most influential musical voices.
00:35 – Unathi begins vocal performance with emotional intensity
01:50 – Storyline visuals illustrate the song’s message
03:10 – Climax with layered vocals and musical depth
In this brief yet powerful clip, Unathi Nkayi opens up about the emotional aftermath of her divorce. With calm vulnerability, she reflects on the feeling of shame often associated with separation and how she learned to move beyond it. Speaking directly to the camera, she expresses gratitude for the lessons gained and the importance of self-compassion.
Her tone is steady and sincere, offering reassurance to others facing similar experiences. Despite its brevity, the video encapsulates Unathi’s message of authenticity, growth, and empowerment — showing strength through softness.
00:10 – Unathi shares feelings of shame after divorce
00:25 – Message of growth and self-forgiveness
00:38 – Closing reflection and emotional pause
Corporate conferences, awards shows, and public ceremonies.
Yes, she often blends music and storytelling for added impact.
Yes, available for bookings across South Africa and internationally.
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