Online Reporter
Mthokozisi Ncube
AT just 19, Bulawayo musician and content creator Nhlanhla Nkomo, popularly known as Mannkind Official, is proving that age should not be a barrier to pursuing one’s dreams.
The Queenspark West-based rising star is carving a niche for himself as a musician, digital content creator, event promoter and producer, while also creating opportunities for other young people through his record label, BlaQ Inc Records.
Mannkind has been steadily building his name in Bulawayo’s entertainment circles and has earned recognition as one of the city’s promising young vocalists, with four Arts Award nominations under his belt.
He is also set for another major milestone on August 22, when he features at the Face of Ama2k 4ED Bulawayo Edition at Nexus Rooftop.
For Mannkind, music is more than entertainment. He sees it as a platform through which he can connect with people, express his emotions and inspire young people who may be afraid to pursue their dreams because of limited resources.
“I have grown to realise that people around me hear my message better through my voice,” he said.
“I started creating content to help people heal through my music, to spread my emotions and dreams and to help students who are afraid of chasing their dreams because of lack of resources.”
His musical journey has also seen him collaborate with his duo partner, Bongani Dube, known as Dubcee Photizo.
The pair have released songs including “They Don’t Consider How I Feel”, an Afro-pop track, and
“Ngakonani”, a 3Step offering.
Mannkind says his versatility allows him to move between genres including Amapiano, Afro-pop, hip-hop and 3Step.
His recent song, “Ngimtholile Owami,” has helped raise his profile, attracting attention because of its relatable message.
“I think it resonated with people because it carried a strong message which they related to,” he said.
Beyond music, Mannkind has embraced digital content creation, with his TikTok account,
@Mannkind Official, having about 4 000 followers.
He says a public interview with Takflow further motivated him to continue sharing his story and message with a wider audience.
However, his journey has not been without challenges.
Mannkind said some of his friends initially struggled to support his ambitions, only changing their attitude after seeing his progress.
“I face challenges whereby most of my friends were resisting to follow me until they saw I was indeed going forward. People do not support us enough in Zimbabwe,” he said.
Despite the challenges, he credits his mother, Tendai Nkomo, and his community for encouraging him to continue pursuing music and content creation.
With several achievements already under his belt at 19, Mannkind believes his journey is only beginning.
“I want the next generation to chase their dreams without fear. Everything is possible,” he said.
For a young artist determined to use his voice to inspire others, Mannkind Official is showing that breaking boundaries can start with simply believing in one’s own potential.
