Thandiswa Nyameka Mazwai (born 31 March 1976)[2] is a South African musician, and is also the lead vocalist and songwriter of Bongo Maffin.

Her work has always been inspired by her mother (who died when Thandiswa was 15 years old) and the writings of people such as Steve Biko and Frantz Fanon, Chinua Achebe and Kwame Nkrumah.

She became widely recognised as the voice of South Africa's conscious youth, their compositions consistently combining dance floor favourites with thought-provoking lyrics.

They were invited to perform all over the world, and shared the stage with musical icons Stevie Wonder, the Marley clan, Ladysmith Black Mambazo, Chaka Khan, Sean Paul, Steel Pulse and Skunk Anansie, among others.

"[10] Her music is often deeply political and her compositions include traditional Xhosa rhythms, Mbaqanga, reggae, kwaito and funk and jazz sounds.

Among other collaborations, she sang in Xhosa with the US musician Meshell Ndegeocello on the albums The World Has Made Me the Man of My Dreams (2007, nominated for a Grammy), and The Omnichord Real Book (2023).

At home in South Africa, Thandiswa has collaborated with illustrious musicians including Hugh Masekela, Stimela, the late Busi Mhlongo.