Hloni Modise Champions Women in Music Through Basadi in Music Awards
Since launching in August 2021, Basadi in Music Awards has become a key event on the social calendar, recognizing the significant contributions of women in South Africa’s music industry. The awards aim to highlight both established legends and emerging talent, providing a platform that celebrates women across all facets of the music ecosystem.
Founder and CEO Hloni Modise emphasizes the impact the awards have on women’s lives. She shares how nominees often experience a profound shift in perception when recognized. For some, being nominated transforms them from “just a person” to an award contender, opening doors to new opportunities and inspiring confidence.
Running a large-scale platform comes with challenges, with finances being the most pressing. Hloni notes that top-tier productions require significant funding, and the awards have yet to secure a headline sponsor. Relying on smaller sponsorships often leaves the team making difficult choices to deliver a high-quality show within limited budgets. Despite these challenges, the focus remains on creating meaningful impact.
Basadi in Music Awards sets itself apart by celebrating women beyond South Africa’s borders. While international recognition exists for a few South African artists, the awards aim to showcase the breadth of talent that often goes unnoticed. The platform offers opportunities for women to gain recognition and access in the global music industry.
Balancing the honoring of legends with uplifting new voices is central to the awards’ mission. By recognizing iconic figures such as Mara Louw, PJ Powers, and Abigail Khubeka, Basadi inspires younger artists who grew up listening to these trailblazers. This connection between generations creates a chain of influence and mentorship, reinforcing the cultural and historical significance of women in music.
Hloni is committed to staying true to the vision of celebrating all women in music, including those working behind the scenes. Categories like Hairstylist of the Year reflect the broader ecosystem of the industry, ensuring that contributions beyond the stage are acknowledged. The awards remain a female-centered space, intentionally designed to protect and elevate women in music without excluding others.
Looking ahead, the hope for Basadi in Music Awards is to collaborate with international award bodies such as the Grammys and BET Awards. Hloni envisions creating a global calendar that celebrates women’s talent across borders, further amplifying the reach and impact of South African female artists.
Basadi in Music Awards continues to grow as a platform that empowers women, celebrates excellence, and inspires the next generation of musicians and industry professionals.
