Jessica Mbangeni.

THIS Mother’s Day, May 8 from 12 pm to 1 pm, Sundaes on Junction and praise poet and singer, Jessica Mbangeni, will bring something extra special to the day with the Newtown Junction Mother’s Day Concert.

Mbangeni, whose son was born on Mother’s Day has created a celebratory programme that will delight all, with special attention paid to moms.

From a young age, she turned heads with her powerful voice, which led to her appearing on Nkosinathi Mbombela’s gospel album, Umthwalo.

Mbangeni’s career in the arts met with many obstacles, but her deep passion for music and commitment to the arts paid off when she successfully auditioned for and joined the Soweto Gospel Choir and made her mark as a praise singer in 2002.

She has performed in various countries including Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Scotland and United States of America, as well as at various events including the 46664 concert in Cape Town and Thabo Mbeki’s second inauguration.

Mbangeni’s musical experience expanded when she joined the Creative Collective Choir working with musical heavyweights such as Hugh Masekela, Sibongile Khumalo, Dorothy Masuka and Dolly Rathebe. Later she released her solo album Igoli, to widespread acclaim.

In 2006 Mbangeni founded KwaNtu Entertainment & Designs agency, an all-encompassing brand that fuses storytelling, fashion and music and draws on her significant connections in the cultural and entertainment industries to get local South African talent exposure.

On Mother’s Day she will be giving a moving tribute to her grandmother, celebrating the many years of traditional storytelling and music she grew up with as a child in Nqamakwe in the Eastern Cape. She will also be performing some of her own work, as well as with her brother, Sibusiso, from the Crown Gospel Group.

On the day there will be giveaways, including 10 sets of Family tickets to the internationally-acclaimed Body Worlds Vital exhibition now showing at the nearby Sci-Bono Discovery Centre, djembe drumming, face-painting and more.

Sundaes on Junction brings a relaxed end to a busy week, with Newtown Junction striking the perfect balance between arts and cultural entertainment, a wide range of dining experiences and shopping. With safe parking, there isn’t a better place to be on Sundays.