Episode 4: Viwe Mkizwana, jazz musician, on making his passion his career

Viwe Mkizwana is an award-winning bassist, composer, arranger, musical director and educator. He has performed around the world, plays with the likes of the Gauteng Philharmonic Orchestra and MIAGI Orchestra, and has released three albums. He has picked up SAMA nominations, a Mzantsi Jazz Award, and two Naledi Awards. He continues to push the boundaries of African jazz.

On this episode, he speaks to us about:

• How he fell in love with jazz music.
• Convincing his family that going into music was the right path for him.
• How his university studies have helped him grow as a musician.
• The message behind his latest album, ‘Black Child’.
• Managing the business of making music.

The LeadUP Podcast gives members of the University of Pretoria community and the broader public access to prominent University of Pretoria alumni and alumni associates, who share their top tips for success, and the stories behind their own climb up their industry ladder. This university podcast aims to ensure a global audience has access to South African and African thought leaders.

Download, listen and subscribe to the LeadUP Podcast today ­– find us by going to www.up.ac.za/alumni/podcasts. Listen and subscribe here or on your favourite podcast app on your mobile device, or find us on YouTube. Help us out by rating and reviewing us. New episodes will be released on the last Tuesday of May, July, September and November 2025.