Jessica Mbangeni

Dr. Bishop Jessica Thembela Mbangeni (22 August 1977 – 31 August 2024) was a South African praise poet and singer. Born and raised in Nqamakwe, Eastern Cape, she rose to prominence after participating on Soweto Gospel Choir in 2002.

Mbangeni had also pursued an acting career. In 2013, Mbangeni made her on-screen feature debut in Zabalaza, and appeared as a guest on the television series Skeem Saam. Other television series Mbangeni appeared in included eKasi: Our Stories (2015), The Coconuts, and Dube on 2.

Background Jessica Mbangeni was born in Nqamakwe, Eastern Cape on 22 August 1977. Mbangeni attended Eastern Cape Technikon, but dropped out to pursue her career in music.

Career Shortly after Mbangeni left tertiary, she relocated to Johannesburg to search for job. and toured around the globe.

Two years later in 2005, Mbangeni pursued her career as a poet. The album was released on 26 September 2014.

Her studio album Busiswe Tribute to African Heroines was released in 2015.

Mbangeni was featured on "As'phelelanga" a single by South African singer Vusi Nova released on 17 August 2018.

Television From 2004 to 2006, Mbangeni made on screen debut on Dube on 2 comedy television series.

In 2015, she portrayed a role of Nambasa on eKasi: Our Stories drama series.

Other ventures Mbangeni established her agency KwaNtu Entertainment and Designs Agency in 2006.

Discography Igoli (2014) Busiswe Tribute to African Heroines (2015) I Am an African (A Cappella) (2022) I Am an African (2022) World Peace (2024)

Singles + List of singles, showing year released and album name Title Year Album "In Love with a Rasta Man" 2018 "Africa" (Andreas Horvat remixes) 2021 "The Sage In Me (Riddim)" 2022 "Dawning of the Dawn" 2023 World Peace "Ibuyile"

Awards OrganizationYearCategoryNominated workResult South African Music Awards 2017 Best Praise Poet Herself 2018 Best Traditional Album iGoli Live at the Lyric Theatre Basadi in Music Awards2024 Traditional Artist of the Year"Lashonilanga"