IN CONVERSATION WITH PEARL THUSI

Loading player...
Pearl Thusi continues to solidify her status as one of South Africa’s most
dynamic talents, seamlessly excelling as an actress, model, entrepreneur, and
DJ. Known for her captivating presence both on screen and behind the decks,
Thusi has recently emerged as a global DJ sensation, enthralling audiences

10:35

and
personal

with her high-energy and electrifying performances.

After a remarkable debut at the Makhelwane Festival in Soweto in 2024,
Pearl quickly became a sought-after DJ, performing at high-profile events
such as the Spotify Cannes event and the NBA Africa Finals in Kigali. In just
one year, she delivered over 125 performances, cementing her reputation as
a prominent figure on the international DJ circuit.

Pearl’s acting career is equally impressive. She is celebrated for her powerful
performances in international hits such as Quantico, where she starred
alongside Priyanka Chopra, and Netflix’s Queen Sono—the streaming
platform’s first African original series—which brought authentic African
narratives to a global audience. Adding to her repertoire, she starred in
Netflix’s action series Wu Assassins, where her physically demanding roles
and riveting fight scenes earned widespread acclaim. Currently, she is filming
a lead role in the new Paramount+ series Average Joe, produced by Deon
Cole.

Beyond entertainment, Pearl is a successful entrepreneur. She launched the
Black Pearl Collection haircare line in partnership with Afrobotanics and
made history as the first African collaborator with MAC Cosmetics, releasing
two limited-edition makeup collections. She also co-owns Black Rose Gin,
expanding her influence across multiple business ventures.

Pearl is now venturing further into music with her debut single, a
collaboration with Maskandi legend Ihhashi Elimhlophe. The track blends
Afro-house, Amapiano, Maskandi, and deep tribal rhythms, reflecting her
versatility and commitment to celebrating African sounds. The song pays
tribute to resilience, love, and African heritage, signaling an exciting new
chapter in her artistic journey.

Whether captivating audiences as a DJ, commanding the screen with
unforgettable performances, or leading successful business initiatives, Pearl
Thusi exemplifies versatility, excellence, and passion. As a trailblazer in
multiple industries, she continues to inspire, break barriers, and showcase

the power of authentic African talent on the global stage.

Career Highlights:

Acting: Patricia Kopong in The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency, Dayana
Mampasi in Quantico, and lead roles in Queen Sono and Average Joe
(Paramount+).
DJ Career: Debuted in 2024 at the Makhelwane Festival; performed at
Spotify Cannes, NBA Africa Finals, and over 125 events worldwide.
Entrepreneurship: Founder of Black Pearl Collection (haircare), co-owner of
Black Rose Gin.
Beauty Milestone: First African collaborator with MAC Cosmetics, launching
two limited-edition collections.
Music Debut: Upcoming single with Maskandi legend Ihhashi Elimhlophe,
merging African sounds with contemporary beats.

Pearl Thusi remains a powerful voice for African talent, a dynamic
entertainer, and a true inspiration for aspiring artists across the globe.
28 Nov 2025 English South Africa Entertainment News · Music Interviews

Other recent episodes

IN CONVERSATION WITH MA MATSHELENG MOGODI, Executive Life Coach

The transition from high school to university is one of the most significant and 11:10 disruptive shifts in a young person’s life. For many first-year students at Wits, this transition comes with academic pressure, independence for the first time, financial stress, identity exploration, and the emotional weight of expectations from…
29 Jan 20 min

IN CONVERSATION WITH NYELETI MAGADZE

Johannesburg’s inner city has long grappled with a growing homelessness challenge, shaped by unemployment, rapid urbanisation, high living costs and intersecting social issues such as substance dependency and mental health needs. Recent local data — including the first standalone Point-in-Time Count coordinated by Jozi My Jozi with partners such as…
29 Jan 13 min

IN CONVERSATION WITH LWANA CHIRWA

The Wits Fencing Club is one of the oldest sports clubs at the University of the Witwatersrand, contributing skilled athletes to South African fencing for over 85 years. It welcomes students of all interests — whether they want fun, fitness, camaraderie, or competitive sport.  Members train with peers, develop tactical…
29 Jan 10 min

IN CONVERSATION WITH MARCO SALVADO

The Wits Squash Club is part of Wits Sport’s diverse sporting community that supports over 20 sports codes available to students on campus. The club is known for being welcoming and inclusive, providing a space for members of all ability levels — from total beginners to experienced players — to…
29 Jan 12 min

IN CONVERSATION WITH KOKETSO POHO

The suspension of Rea Vaya feeder buses in parts of Soweto has triggered sharp political and public backlash, with the Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) in Gauteng accusing the City of Johannesburg of making a unilateral and profit- driven decision that undermines access to affordable public transport. According to the EFF,…
29 Jan 13 min