Hlengiwe Mhlaba is a South African gospel singer from KwaMashu, KwaZulu-Natal, known as the "Queen of Gospel." Discovered by Sipho Makhabane, she released her debut album Dwala Lami in 2005 and has since won multiple South African Music Awards and Crown Gospel Awards.

Early Life and Career

Born in 1973 in KwaMashu township, Mhlaba sang with the Pongola Gospel Wagon while teaching high-school maths and science . She was spotted onstage by gospel singer and promoter Sipho Makhabane, who signed her to Amanxusa Productions . In 2005, she released her debut album Dwala Lami, which went triple-platinum .

Discography and Awards

Her catalog includes Dwala Lami (2005), Blessings (2014), Sthandwa Sami (2017), and live projects . Blessings earned a SAMA nomination for Best African Contemporary Gospel Release . She has won multiple South African Music Awards (SAMAs) and Crown Gospel Music Awards . In 2020, she received an honorary doctorate from Immanuel Theology Educational Institute International .

Overcoming Adversity

Mhlaba has spoken openly about surviving depression, a suicide attempt in her youth, a near-fatal car crash in 2019, and serious surgery in 2023 . After her mother's passing in 2004, she was adopted by the Njilo family, whom she credits with transforming her life . In 2025, she celebrated 20 years in music with a live recording, 20 Years of Grace, at The Playhouse in Durban .