Quick Facts
Biography
Maya Wegerif (born 9 May 1992), commonly known by her stage name Sho Madjozi, is a South African rapper and poet. Sho Madjozi is known for featuring in Okmalumkoolkat's Ngiyashisa Bhe and Gqi, as well as DJ Maphorisa's Probleme, and is an up-and-coming artist within the South African rap scene.
Early Life
Wegerif was born in South Africa to a white father and black mother, and grew up in Shirley, a small village in Limpopo. As a teenager, Wegerif travelled to the United States to read African Studies and Creative Writing at Mount Holyoke College. Following this, she returned to South Africa and took up a fellowship in writing at the University of Johannesburg.
Music and Career
Wegerif's early work was mostly spoken word, written under the alias MayaThePoet. Race, identity and politics play a common theme throughout her work, such as in her spoken word poem Sometimes it Pours. After her return from the United States, Wegerif started rapping under the alias Sho Madjozi, in collaboration with Okmalumkoolkat, most significantly being featured in the track Ngiyashisa Bhe and the hit single Gqi. She is significant for choosing to rap in Xitsonga, and states that it is important to her to remain true to the language.
Sho Madjozi's fashion is an important element of her work, with her colorful and vibrant outfits matching the carefree style of her rapping.
As well as her work within the music industry, Wegerif also acts in the Mzansi Magic telenovela Isithembiso.
Personal Life
Sho Madjozi currently lives in Johannesburg with her boyfriend, a photographer.