Student feature - DJ Sophia
At just a young age, DJ Sophia has already built an impressive reputation behind the decks, performing at major events, appearing on radio, and using her platform to inspire and uplift others. Beyond the music, she continues to balance school, community work, and a growing career with remarkable dedication and maturity.
We caught up with DJ Sophia to chat about her journey, the lessons she's learned along the way, and her hopes for the future as both a DJ and a young leader in her community.
You're known as one of Cape Town's youngest DJs. When did you first realize that music was more than just a hobby?
I realized that DJing was more than just a hobby when I started performing at bigger events and gigs. That's when I knew DJing was my passion and not just something I did for fun.
What was going through your mind the first time you stepped into the Good Hope FM studio and played live on radio?
I was very nervous at first, but as soon as I got behind the decks, I went into my own zone and started to calm down. Having Grandmaster Ready D being so kind and welcoming on the day also helped. It was an amazing experience.
How do you balance school, family life, and a growing DJ career?
School always comes first, and then everything else follows. The support of my parents really helps create balance in my life. Besides school, I also juggle extra-mural activities, DJing, production training, gigs, and the SOFIRE Academy.
Your sets often blend music from different generations and genres. Who has had the biggest influence on your musical taste and style?
My parents and grandparents have had the biggest influence on my musical taste. I grew up listening to a lot of old-school music, which shaped the way I appreciate and select music today.
Many young girls look up to you. What message would you like to share with girls who dream of becoming DJs or pursuing a career in music?
Always follow your heart and chase your dreams. Don't let anyone bring you down because there aren't many female DJs. You could be the person who inspires more girls to get involved in the music industry.
You've already performed at major events and festivals. Which performance stands out as your most memorable and why?
The Switching on of the Lights event stands out the most. Hearing thousands of people singing along to the songs I was playing felt incredible. Knowing that I was entertaining such a huge crowd was magical. Playing for 85,000 people was absolutely crazy!
Besides DJing, you've been involved in community initiatives. Why is giving back important to you?
My mother always taught me that giving is better than receiving. Seeing less fortunate children happy always warms my heart because we never know what challenges they may be facing.
What is something people assume about being a young DJ that isn't actually true?
People often assume that I hardly go to school or that I don't perform well academically. That's not true at all. I consistently achieve good grades, I'm a prefect, a class captain, and I'm actively involved in sports at school.
erform well academically. That's not true at all. I consistently achieve good grades, I'm a prefect, a class captain, and I'm actively involved in sports at school.
If you could collaborate with any South African or international artist or DJ, who would it be and what kind of project would you create together?
I would love to collaborate with Tyla. I would want to produce a song with her.
Looking five or ten years ahead, what do you hope people will say about DJ Sophia — not just as a DJ, but as a person?
I hope people will say that I'm hardworking, kind, and always willing to help others.
You're also an ambassador for G-CAP. What does being part of the organization mean to you, and how has it helped shape your journey both as a DJ and as a young leader in your community?
Being part of G-CAP has given me the opportunity to help young people and become involved in more charity events. It's also helping me improve as a DJ by teaching me new skills, such as scratching, and helping me enhance my abilities and talent.
You already had a wealth of DJ experience before enrolling at Beat Bangaz DJ Academy. What motivated you to take the course, and what new skills or perspectives did you gain from the experience?
I wanted to upskill myself and continue improving as a DJ. One of the biggest things I learned was that scratching involves so many more elements than what people hear and see on the surface.
Every DJ has a learning moment that changes the way they approach music. Was there a particular lesson or piece of advice from the academy that still influences you today?
The biggest lesson I learned was simple: practice, practice, practice.
When you're not behind the decks or involved in community projects, what are some of your hobbies and interests? How do they inspire your creativity?
I am actively involved in sports and love playing netball. I also enjoy spending time with my friends and family. I believe inspiration for music can come from almost any activity you do.
You've achieved so much at a young age. How do you stay grounded while balancing school, family, community work, and a growing music career?
I always pray.
Famous last words...
Always dream big and unlock your talent. Never be afraid to show the world who you are. 🎧✨
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