Unathi Nkayi
- Date of birth: November 6, 1978
- Place of birth: Grahamstown, Eastern Cape, South Africa
- Nationality: South African
- Main activity: Singer, radio host, actress, television judge, MC, author
- Genre: Pop, Afro-pop, R&B, International, Electronic, Folk
Unathi Nkayi, born Unathi Fundiswa Msengana on November 6, 1978, in Grahamstown, Eastern Cape, South Africa, is a prominent South African media personality. She is a singer, radio host, actress, television judge, and author. She holds a Degree in International Media Studies from the University of Utrecht and a Degree in Journalism and Drama from Rhodes University. Her career began in 2001, and she has since become a household name in the South African entertainment industry, known for her versatile presence across various platforms.
Career
Unathi Nkayi's career began in 2001 when she moved to Johannesburg and started as a host of the television show Castle Loud, followed by a stint as a radio presenter on YFM. In 2004, she co-hosted Popstars. She gained significant recognition as a judge on Idols South Africa for many seasons. Musically, she has released several albums, including her debut In Honour (2008), which won Best Female Vocalist at the 2008 Metro FM Music Awards, and Brave, True and Strong (2017), which sold out within a week. She has performed for the United Nations delegates, receiving a standing ovation from Quincy Jones, and shared stages with international artists like John Legend. She also composed "Sgubhu," featured on the soundtrack for the Academy Award-winning film Tsotsi. Beyond music and TV, Unathi has been a co-host of Metro FM's "Breakfast Show" for 10 years and has hosted numerous high-profile events. She also authored a book, "I Keep Learning."
Children
Unathi Nkayi has two children, a son named Sinako and a daughter named Imbo, with her ex-husband Thomas Msengana.
Family
Unathi Nkayi's parents are Sakhiwo and Nondwe Nkayi. She was married to Thomas Msengana, with whom she has two children, Sinako and Imbo. In 2025, she announced the passing of her father, Sakhiwo Nkayi.
Dating history
Unathi Nkayi was married to radio personality Thomas Msengana from 2009 until their divorce in 2017. She has recently denied rumors of a romantic relationship with Prince Kaybee, stating they are just good friends and he is like family.
Awards (2020 to May 2025):
- Glamour Woman of the Year at the Media Star awards (2014)
- Best Female Vocalist at the Metro FM Music Awards for her debut album In Honour (2008)
- Most Promising Woman in Media at the MTN Media Awards (2005)
- Best Dressed Artist at the Metro FM Music Awards (2003)
- Song of The Year at the Metro FM Music Awards (2003)
