DJ Sbu Receives Lifetime Achievement Award
Sbusiso Leope, popularly known as DJ Sbu, has been awarded a Lifetime Achievement Award at the second annual Township Economy Awards, in recognition of his long-standing contribution to media, entrepreneurship and community development anchored in the township economy.
Leope’s journey began in Tembisa, where he volunteered at a local community radio station, Tembisa Info Radio. This early involvement in community broadcasting shaped a career built on discipline, consistency and a commitment to amplifying township voices. That foundation later led him to national recognition at YFM, where he became one of the station’s prominent youth broadcasters and played a key role in shaping youth culture while bringing township perspectives to mainstream platforms.
Beyond radio, DJ Sbu broadened his influence into music, business and writing. As a DJ and music producer, he remained active in the entertainment industry while steadily building credibility beyond broadcasting. His entrepreneurial profile grew further through the co-founding of MoFaya, an energy drink brand that originated in the township economy and successfully entered the national market. The brand has since become a notable example of locally built businesses and Black brand ownership.
Leope also shared his experiences through authorship, publishing books that focus on leadership, entrepreneurship and personal development. His work draws heavily from lived experience, offering practical insights on discipline, self-belief and long-term thinking rather than theoretical instruction.
His involvement in property investment further reflects his emphasis on sustainability and asset ownership. He has consistently advocated for long-term value creation and financial stability, particularly encouraging young entrepreneurs to build beyond short-term success and visibility.
Through the Sbusiso Leope Education Foundation, his impact has extended into education and youth development. The foundation has reached more than 500,000 township high school learners, exposing them to education, leadership and entrepreneurship opportunities. Many beneficiaries have gone on to pursue further studies and professional careers across various sectors.
The Lifetime Achievement Award recognises decades of leadership, consistency and service. It honours a career focused on expanding access to opportunity, sharing knowledge and creating platforms that enable others to grow.
