Dominica Unpacks Her Debut Single “Siyakudumisa”: An Exclusive Interview With South Africa’s Rising Gospel Voice
Dominica Unpacks Her Debut Single “Siyakudumisa”: An Exclusive Interview With South Africa’s Rising Gospel Voice. South Africa’s gospel landscape thrives on voices that carry both conviction and craft. Among its rising lights is Dominica, full name Saneliwe Dominica Mthombeni—a vocalist and worship leader whose message is rooted in Scripture and refined through formal musical training. With her debut single “Siyakudumisa,” Dominica frames worship not as a transaction for blessings but as a response to the finished work of Christ.
What follows is a feature-style presentation of our conversation with Dominica, preserving the original interview structure and wording exactly as shared. Around that, we’ve added context to paint a fuller picture of the artist, the song, and the season she’s stepping into. The result is a window into her formation at home and in church, her prayer-soaked creative process, and her clear-eyed view of what the worship movement needs now—along with the promise of a larger project slated for early 2026.
With that backdrop, here is the interview as conducted—unaltered in wording or order.
For people meeting you for the first time, who is Dominica—artist and person?
A) I am firstly a born-again child of God; that’s the most important thing to note about me. I love Jesus. I am a qualified musician and have the awesome privilege of doing what I am called to do.
Where did your journey in worship and music begin?
A) I grew up in a Christian home, and that’s where the love for music stems from. I have nostalgic moments every time I hear some classics because music was a fundamental part of my upbringing. My ministry and gift were nurtured at home by my parents and grew in the church where I have been singing for as long as I can remember.
The Debut Single: “Siyakudumisa”
In your own words, what is “Siyakudumisa” about?
Siyakudumisa is really just an anthem of worship. It speaks to who the Lord is to us, and that alone is a reason for us to worship Him. Many times we get caught up in the tangle blessing, what God can do and centre our worship around that when really the finished works of Calvary are more than enough.
What sparked the first idea? Was it a melody, a scripture, or a moment in prayer?
A) It was in a season of prayer when I heard the melody ‘Ungu Mfeli wethu, ungu Mmeli wethu, ungu Mhlengi wethu Siyakudumisa’ and everything built up from there. I was blessed with a wonderful team that was able to articulate what God laid in my heart so accurately.
Which scriptures or phrases on the cover (e.g., Romans 5:8, Psalms 24:7, Colossians 1:13) shaped the lyrics most, and why?
A) To be honest, after getting the melody and words, I had to go back to scripture to get more insight on what it means to be died for, defended and redeemed by Jesus, and those are some of the scriptures I found. These three resonated with me the most, and that’s why I emphasise them in the song and also on the artwork. They’re all equally the core message of the song. It starts on the cross when Jesus dies for us, and gives us redemption through His blood. It doesn’t end there, though, as we know He presently intercedes for us and defends us against any accusations from the enemy.
What do you hope listeners feel or do the first time they hear it?
I hope this song ignites worship within people. It’s not about the nice things we did there; it’s really all about hearts wanting to worship God. My prayer is that we seek His heart more than we do His hand, and that this will be a reminder that He truly is all we need.
Is there a personal experience or season that made this song necessary for you?
A) The song in itself was birthed from a season of quietness and uncertainty. In those moments when it seems God is not speaking, and you desperately need direction. Sometimes, it’s really just God you need. Not a word, not a dramatic experience, but just to sit and experience Him.
What’s been the hardest part of being an up-and-coming gospel artist in South Africa?
A) I believe it’s generally just hard to infiltrate the industry; however, the hardest part for me has been getting over myself. To be able to do this at this magnitude, there is a lot of work to be done and putting myself out there. It’s a personal battle that I believe I’m slowly overcoming, but I believe all other things God will work out. The work should speak for itself, but also it’s God that makes us prosper, so He will perfect everything that concerns me as an upcoming artist in the gospel industry.
Who are the South African (or African) artists who’ve inspired you?
A) Oh, we have such beautiful artists in this country. Ntokozo Mbambo has inspired me with her consistency. She’s been at it for so long and has stayed true to her sound. Growing up, I was inspired by and wanted to be like Mam’ Rebecca Malope because she symbolised everything I wanted to be, an absolute dynamite that has stood the test of time. South Africa is so rich with talent, I could go on and on.
What do you think the local gospel/worship scene needs more of right now?
A) We need worshippers after God’s heart. I think anyone can go to a studio and release a song, but the people of God need hope, they need faith, they need God. We’re in a time where we can no longer make it about everything else but God. I do think God is raising such a breed and ushering in revival in the hearts of man.
What’s Next?
Is “Siyakudumisa” part of a bigger project—EP/album—or a standalone season?
A) Absolutely. My team and I are working on a larger project. These are things that we hope to do in early 2026. For now, though, we are pushing the single and building up to the EP, so let’s keep our ears on the ground and be on the lookout, but more is definitely coming.
One message you’d like to leave with someone who feels far from hope today?
A) Romans 10:11 says ‘He will not put to shame those who trust in Him. Trust God even when it makes no sense, and there is no tangible evidence that He’s with you or working it out for you. Believe me when I say, I am living proof that He sees and listens. Don’t lose heart, stay diligent, serve Him and stand on that word, that He will never put you to shame.
Why “Siyakudumisa” Matters Now
Set against a backdrop where worship music can drift toward result-oriented narratives, Dominica’s language is a reset. The anthem deliberately centres on who God is—Redeemer, Defender, Intercessor—before what He gives. That theological posture gives the song congregational longevity: it’s a singable truth that transcends seasons of lack or abundance. Her prayer-birthed melody and the repeated confession “Siyakudumisa” (“we praise You”) invite gathered churches and private worshippers alike to respond, not react.
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