About
Zimiphi Biyela, widely known as Zim Dollar, is a multi-talented South African media personality, singer, actress, radio presenter, motivational speaker, and educator. Born in the rural village of eNdabazensangu under the King Cetshwayo District in Obuka, she is a proud daughter of the soil and one of six siblings— a twin and the first-born daughter in her family.
From a young age, Zimiphi was confident that she was destined for greatness, though the path ahead was not always clear. Her journey in the performing arts began with Mbongeni Ngema’s Committed Artists, where she served as a dancer, lead vocalist, and actress. Over the three years she spent with the company, she honed her craft, developing skills that would become the foundation of her diverse career.
Committed to education and personal development, she pursued a Bachelor of Education degree through the University of South Africa (UNISA) and began working as a teacher at Ohlelo Combined School in Nkandla. While teaching, she also launched her music career with the release of her debut Afro-pop album Kwaze Kwamnandi in 2009.
Zimiphi entered the broadcasting world in 2010 as a newsreader at Icora FM. Her radio journey took a significant turn in 2011 when she auditioned for the Ukhozi FM Presenter Search. Although she did not win the competition, her natural talent and compelling on-air presence earned her a full-time position at the station—marking the beginning of a successful radio career.
At Ukhozi FM, she has hosted a range of popular shows, including Ikhethelo loKhozi, Sibhukuda Kwesimanzonzo, Kwasa Okungaliyo, Ezamabandla, and the highly acclaimed Sigiya Ngengoma, a traditional music program with a listenership of over three million. As one of the first women to break into this traditionally male-dominated space, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the representation of women in cultural programming.
Zimiphi’s talents extend to the small screen as well. In 2014, she joined the cast of SABC 1’s Uzalo as Samukelisiwe “Keke” Nzuza. Her performance earned her a Best Actress nomination at the 2016 Sabela Mabhunu Awards, highlighting her versatility and excellence as an actress.
Outside of her work in radio and television, Zimiphi is a passionate motivational speaker, master of ceremonies, and advocate for traditional culture and values. She continues to make appearances in films and has aspirations to act in productions with global reach. She also envisions launching a traditional fashion boutique, merging her love for culture with entrepreneurship.
A true embodiment of resilience, purpose, and talent, Zimiphi Biyela continues to inspire through every platform she graces—always rooted in her heritage and driven by a desire to break new ground.
