“The Thanda Choir” is a documentary set in one of South Africa’s most dangerous townships, Khayelitsha, where the Thanda Choir stands as a beacon of hope. These young voices break through barriers to find unity, purpose, and self-expression through the transformative power of music and culture.
Through music, the choir confronts the realities of poverty and crime, yet their harmonies reveal a different story: one of perseverance, friendship, and unstoppable ambition.
This film isn’t just about music. It’s about rewriting narratives, challenging perceptions, and offering an intimate window into life in Khayelitsha. Follow the inspiring journey of the Thanda Choir as they create generational hope and fight to secure the funds needed to build their dream rehearsal space.
Esonna, just 15, is the youngest member of the choir’s main cast. Despite the challenges she faces, she becomes a powerful, authentic voice for life in Khayelitsha. Through her dedication and belief in the choir, we see the hope this project creates.
Siya, originally part of Asa’s theatre group, has since become a key member of the Thanda Choir, contributing as a powerful male backing vocalist. His dedication extends beyond music, playing a vital role in the choir’s fundraising efforts to secure a permanent rehearsal space.
Zoleka, a 23-year-old powerhouse vocalist, brings a raw, emotional depth to her performances shaped by a challenging past. As one of the senior members of the choir, she has evolved into a natural leader and inspiring others with her strength and passion both on and off the stage.
Asandisa is a 23-year-old powerhouse vocalist and one of the choir’s standout artists. As a lead singer—featured prominently in the Thanda Choir’s original song Kukud’ekhaya—she brings both soul and strength to every performance. As a founding member, she continues to inspire the group with her talent, dedication, and resilience.
Iva is a 20-year-old rising star in the organization and another powerhouse vocalist known for her intense emotion and raspiness. She is the lead singer on the Thanda Choir’s original song "Ndilimele".
Prince, a 23-year-old musical prodigy, is the mastermind behind many of the Thanda Choir’s original compositions. Despite having no formal training, his raw talent, instinctive creativity, and natural ability to compose and conduct set him apart as a truly exceptional artist.
Mazzi is affectionately known as the “mother of the choir.” Initially attending rehearsals to support her child involved in the group, she quickly became a trusted presence and positive role model—especially for the young women. Her natural leadership and nurturing spirit stood out, prompting Luke and Julio to invite her to join the team as one of the choir’s managers.
Before joining the Thanda Choir, Asa was already a respected arts and culture leader in Khayelitsha. He ran his own theater-focused organization, providing young people with a creative outlet and a positive role model. Recognizing his impact and leadership, Luke and Julio approached Asa to become a manager and co-leader of the Thanda Choir. He agreed—and in a powerful move of collaboration, merged his organization with the choir to strengthen their shared mission.
Julio, a 21-year-old from Johannesburg, is the co-founder of the Thanda Choir. Like Luke, he moved to Cape Town to pursue his studies—focusing on acting. When Luke, a high school friend, approached him with the idea of starting a new choir in Khayelitsha, Julio immediately said yes. Since then, he’s become an essential part of the team, bringing creativity, leadership, and heart to the project.
Luke, a 20-year-old from Johannesburg, is the driving force behind the creation of the Thanda Choir. While studying economics and politics at the University of Cape Town, he began volunteering with a choir in Khayelitsha, helping with their social media. Luke then took a bold step—leaving the group and founding a new choir built on trust, transparency, and empowerment: The Thanda Choir.