SOUTH AFRICAN SINGING SENSATION, LEAH – ON SUCCESS, HER STORY AND WHAT MAKES HER PROUDLY SOUTH AFRICAN
SALM TEAM 
“The support of the public makes me absolutely believe in South Africa!” – Leah
She’s a woman of heart, of passion and of pure talent. Her debut album, Wonderwerk, boasts gold status for its bold success but it’s not only in the music world where the passionate individual succeeds, but also onscreen as a two-season presenter of kykNET’s ever-popular, Boer Soek ‘N Vrouseries.
As a BCom Law graduate from the University of Stellenbosch, Leani van Niekerk, better known as Leah, later attended the Waterfront Theatre School, where she studied Musical Theatre, Drama and Dance.
Leah was first seen showcasing her talents on the silver screen in 2013, opposite Bobby van Jaarsveld in the feature film, As Jy Sing; and in the 2018 film, SUSTERS, in which she played one of the main roles. SUSTERS broke several box office records during its opening weekend and Leah played an integral part in its overall success.
Known for her unique voice and bubbly personality, Leah has touched the lives of many across the country, and continues to do so on a daily basis whether it be through song, stage or online productions like ‘Magical Musicals’ where she collaborated with André Schwartz, and proudly took you on a magical journey through a fantasy world with songs from popular musicals such as Aladdin, Phantom Of The Opera, Les Miserables, Mamma Mia! and many more to interpret.
Her latest studio album, Kyk Na My, was launched in September 2019, but it’s her most recent singles, Move Aan and Ek Like Jou, that have caught the eyes and ears of music lovers and enthusiasts alike for having reached over half a million views, respectively, in only a short space of time as well as reaching the Top 20 on Apple Music Afrikaans Chart. With overall streams of 35 Million, and counting, it’s testimony to her influence in the industry!
As a Proudly South African Singer, Actress, Model and Presenter, it was a no-brainer that Leah was the perfect fit to showcase as South African Lifestyle’s first exclusive cover story.
We caught up with Leah, who resides in Cape Town with her husband, Hennie, and their two dogs, Lilla and Miggie.
– As a singer, what makes you proudly South African?
I’m proud of the fact that we are so diverse as a country, diverse in music and the beautiful people we have! The support of the public makes me absolutely believe in SA.
– What are you passionate about the most in life and your career?
Definitely music, listening to new styles, broadening my knowledge and incorporating it into my own music. I’m also extremely passionate about food (not that I’m the best cook!) but I love trying new restaurants with my husband and friends and revelling in the togetherness it brings. My hubby and I have recently started travelling and it’s becoming a very big passion of ours to see and experience new places! Big bucket list- Cuba!!
– What is your biggest take away from life right now?
It’s so extremely important to take time for yourself and the people you love. Work hard that you can play even harder- remember that those around you are your support structure and they also need YOUR support. WHAT you have can be so much more fulfilling with WHO have 🙂 Also, don’t change for anyone or anything, compromise is necessary, but don’t sell your soul.
– What does it take to become an Actress in the South African market?
Hard work, hard work and MORE hard work. Improve your skills, network, put yourself out there. And never ever do it for the wrong reasons, if you only want to be famous, it’s only going to be short lived. You need the passion and fire for this industry!
– Talking about the South African Music Industry, which artists have influenced you the most?
Laurika Rauch is a very big inspiration to me- she has been in the industry for so many years and still she is timeless, relevant and just fantastic. I would love to have her longevity in my own career.
I also love Mathew Mole and Jeremy Loops, their organic styles are incredible.
“I push myself every single day – in terms of my voice, physically and emotionally; in order to give my best in everything I do!” – Leah.
– Looking back on your career, what have been some of the challenges you have had to overcome?
Empty promises, lack of sleep, waiting for work, pushbacks on releases, PATIENCE, oh wow there are so many things! Being in the public eye also has challenges of their own- not losing yourself in the criticism, not letting the backstabbing get to you, getting to believe that there is a place for everyone and not competing against others, but yourself. It’s an uphill battle, like in any industry, but you are fighting while everyone’s watching…
– As a South African musician, where do you draw inspiration from?
South Africans love having a great time, dancing, spending time with their favourites and feeling good. Yes, we can be very deep and serious and that also makes for great music. I sing songs that I can relate to, but we also write for our incredible supporters. My husband was the inspiration for my most recent release, it’s a tongue-in-cheeck song, but my incredibly deep love for him is always a great topic!
– Talk us through a typical day in the life of a musician?
I don’t think any two days are ever the same! But in general I try to exercise, get enough sleep (rarely happens haha) prepare and practice for whatever gig, production, etc. is next, visit a friend or family if I am home and create content.
– What do you want to be remembered for in 20 years’ time?
My positivity and how I made people feel 🙂 Yes, it would be lovely to be remembered as a respected, successful and talented artist, but I also want to leave a good feeling with those that crossed my path.
– How are you, as a South African, putting your social media platforms to good use?
I always post when I feel it is necessary, useful and fitting. I use it at a marketing tool and there are times that I have to post about upcoming shows, etc. but I try and keep it as organic as possible and keep it completely ME 🙂 I take breaks too, but I am constantly checking in as my supporters communicate with me very often and it’s important to keep the relationships. I keep it positive and motivational and I share as much of my personal life as I think is necessary (love sharing my cute husband, but he’s shy haha)
– What change do you wish to see in South Africa and why?
More respect. Respect between people, people respecting each other’s feelings, their space, possessions, interests, opinions… I think the only way to move forward is for us to have more respect.
– Lastly, what words of encouragement do you wish to share with the younger youth of today?
If you are your own unique self, then there is no competition.
You can’t always win and that’s okay.
Arrogance ain’t pretty, stay humble.
Life’s a journey, enjoy the ride, not just the destination!
Music is, and will always be Leah’s first love. Rooted deep within her soul, it’s evident that her passion for music, dance and acting are simply contagious!
Follow her journey online: https://www.instagram.com/leahmusieksa/
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