At just 18, Yandani Shabalala is already doing the most in the best way. Fresh off dropping his debut single Honeydew, the Durban-born artist is stepping into the spotlight with purpose and personality. With harmonious melodies, a following that keeps growing, and a sense of humour to match, Yandani is the kind of star you want to root for. In this Youth Month feature, he gets real about Gen Z, mental health, Mzansi’s biggest flexes, and what it means to show up as your full self in a world that’s always watching.
1. What’s one thing you wish older generations understood about Gen Z?
(Be it a misconception or myth about Gen Z)
I wish older generations understood that mental health struggles aren’t a weakness. I’ve seen a lot of the older generation on TikTok saying how sensitive Gen Z is, when really it’s because the older generation chose to suffer in silence—and Gen Z doesn’t want to be silent about it, but helped through it.
2. If your current energy were a TikTok sound, what would it be?
(Give us a lyric, a quote, or the sound itself. We won’t judge.)
“Sobonan’ emathuneni” 😭 🤣 Only because the videos under that sound are so funny—and also, I’m writing exams right now and I just want to scream.
3. You’ve got a billboard in the heart of Joburg CBD. What does it say?
(10 words max)
“They never seen a pretty boy from Durban.”
4. Who’s your Youth Day icon—past or present—and why?
(Whether it’s Hector Pieterson or Uncle Waffles, this is your moment to honour someone who moves you.)
Well, Hector Pieterson is an icon. The whole of South Africa knows about him. He was one of the first students shot by apartheid police during the Soweto Uprising, including the very famous picture that we all know—of his body being carried after he was shot.
5. Describe the South Africa you’re building—using just three emojis.
❤️🔥🥹🕺
6. What’s your ultimate local flex—something proudly South African you’ll always brag about?
(From Kota culture to Amapiano supremacy, drop the gems.)
We can alllll dance. Our food is top notch. And out of all the 11 official languages we have, everyone here knows how to speak at least 3–4 of them—no matter their race.
7. Tell us about a moment you thought: “Yoh, I’m actually who I think I am.”
(Confidence is free. Let’s hear the story.)
When I would go to concerts and the artists performing would be so excited to see me and already know who I am from social media.
8. How do you stay soft and sane in a world that’s doing the most?
(Whether it’s solo dates, safe spaces, or therapy—what keeps you grounded?)
I’m very good at just separating myself and living in my own world in my head. I block out anything that’s negative and just do things my way.
9. Finish this sentence: “The youth of 2025 aren’t just woke—we’re also ______.”
(Keep it spicy. Keep it real.)
Unwilling to settle for silence. We don’t stay quiet on situations or let situations get ignored and dismissed.
10. Previdar is all about style, impact, and culture. How are you making your mark?
(Brag a little. This is your spotlight.)
I’m making my mark by being who I am and not letting any negativity change me. My whole life I was judged on how I don’t stereotypically sound like every other guy when I’m singing or even talking. But I didn’t let that change me at all. I’m making my mark by showing other guys not to mind comments that look down on them for being “different” from other guys.