Emalahleni’s Thabo Ndlovu recently emerged victorious in the epic season 19 finale of South Africa’s singing competition show Idols South Africa.

Over the weekend, Thabo Ndlovu, a 26-year-old contestant from Emalahleni, whose emotions overflowed as tears of joy streamed down his face, emerged victorious on the popular television show Idols South Africa. This heartfelt victory left Princess MacDonald from Mpumalanga as the runner-up.

In the wake of his win, the jubilant contestant, Ndlovu, expressed his gratitude to the live audience and the viewers at home for their unwavering support. He went on to deliver an electrifying performance of his song “iSlungu,” humbly acknowledging, “I’m so humbled. I’m so grateful for each one of you,” in front of the ecstatic crowd.

The victory comes with a plethora of prizes for Ndlovu, including R1 million in cash from Mzansi Magic, a brand new Toyota Vitz, a technology bundle worth R65,000 from Huawei, R10,000 worth of musical equipment from Yamaha, a wardrobe valued at R100,000 courtesy of Truworths, and a record deal from judge JR’s Feel Good Music. Princess MacDonald, the second-place finisher, will take home all her live show outfits and a fashion voucher valued at R50,000, also from Truworths.

“When I first started my journey on Idols SA, I wasn’t sure I was going to get this far; the plan was to get my name out there and for people to see me. Week after week I then saw how much I resonated with the audience and the love they gave to me up until this point. I really appreciate everyone who voted for me. The people back home from my community really showed up for me and that’s the reason why I’ve won today,” said Thabo.

He also said he started singing as young as he could remember. He recalled spending Sundays with his mother singing while cleaning their home.

With his future now looking bright, Ndlovu hopes to solidify his voice in the gospel market and bring hope to those in need.

The 19th season of Idols SA commenced on July 8th, with hopeful singers auditioning for a chance to shine, judged by JR Bogopa, Thembi Seete, and Somizi Mhlongo. The top 10 contestants came together to give a closing performance, which also featured judge Mhlongo. The final show featured performances by renowned musicians, including Cassper Nyovest, Vusi Nova, Sipho ‘Hotstix’ Mabuse, and a special collaboration with American singer PJ Morton and the final two contestants.

This was the final season of Idols SA. It was announced in February that the singing competition had been canceled. Therefore, South Africa got its first taste of the competition when the inaugural show aired in March 2002. It was the second international spinoff of the popular British show, Pop Idol.