Veteran South African radio personality and former *Idols SA* judge, Unathi Nkayi, has taken a new step in her career by launching her own podcast. Titled “A.S.S (A Safe Space) with Unathi,” the podcast follows a series of personal and professional challenges, including a widely publicized fallout with her former colleague, Somizi Mhlongo.
Unathi announced her podcast on social media, sharing an emotionally charged photograph of herself with her son. She hinted at the personal nature of the podcast, revealing that both her son and nephews would be part of it. “He and my nephews have agreed to come onto my podcast to talk about it because Woaw,” she wrote, suggesting the series will delve into some deeply personal topics.
This podcast launch comes shortly after Unathi’s revealing interview on *Podcast and Chill with MacG*, where she spoke candidly about various pivotal moments in her life. One of the most discussed topics was her exit from *Idols SA*. During the interview, Unathi openly accused Somizi Mhlongo of being responsible for her dismissal from the popular singing competition.
Unathi explained that she had anticipated her departure from the show when Somizi was set to return after a hiatus caused by abuse allegations. She said, “I knew it was coming because Somizi was coming back, I knew he wouldn’t want to work with me after the stance I took.” Unathi’s stance against abuse has been a central part of her career, and she suggested that this position may have contributed to Somizi’s reluctance to work with her again.
Their falling out goes beyond their professional lives. Unathi revealed that Somizi had sided with her ex-husband, Thomas Msengana, during and after their divorce, which deeply affected their friendship. “Somizi and I are no longer friends because he chose Thomas’ side, and I don’t have any problem with him,” she stated. She also recounted how their relationship deteriorated over time, with Somizi ceasing communication, going on vacations with her ex-husband, and making disparaging remarks about her on his reality show.
Despite these setbacks, Unathi has maintained resilience throughout her career. In 2023, she filed a lawsuit against Kaya FM, her former employer, after a verbal altercation with fellow broadcaster Sizwe Dhlomo. She claimed that her contract was unlawfully terminated and sought compensation for unpaid salary, damages, defamation, and the impairment of her dignity.
In 2022, Unathi joined community radio station STAR 91.9FM after leaving Kaya FM. She expressed that this new role was not a step down but rather a fresh challenge. “I have done all types of radio, so it is part of me that needs to find what I can do and be what I can,” she said, emphasizing her passion for continuous growth and development in her career.
Unathi’s latest project, her podcast, is expected to focus on mental health, a topic she has become increasingly vocal about. The podcast will offer her a platform to address issues that are deeply personal to her, including her career struggles and the emotional challenges she has faced in recent years.
The timing of “A.S.S (A Safe Space) with Unathi” suggests that it will be a space for further introspection and candid conversations. Her choice to include her family members, such as her son and nephews, highlights the personal nature of the podcast and the potential for it to provide unique insights into her life.
Unathi Nkayi’s career has seen both significant triumphs and challenges, and her resilience continues to shine through. As she embarks on this new chapter with her podcast, audiences are eager to hear more about her journey and her take on the personal and professional experiences that have shaped her.
