Born in Eswatini, raised in New York, and now shaping how the world hears Africa – Nkosiyati 'Yati' Khumalo's journey from third-culture kid to GQ South Africa's first Black editor-in-chief globally, Apple Music Africa editorial lead and founding Editor-in-Chief of Billboard Africa is a masterclass in curiosity, resilience and reinvention.

In this conversation, Yati opens up about growing up between worlds, losing his mother at eighteen, and rebuilding his life in South Africa with no safety net and no formal pipeline. He reflects on the chameleon work of adapting to every room, and asks the harder question underneath it all:

"How do I get back to being green?"

We move through the GQ years – Black dandyism, aspirational media and the tension of representing a complex, majority Black readership under an international franchise – before arriving at the music. From Apple Music playlists to Billboard Africa charts, Yati speaks about why African stories must be told by African voices:

"We don't have to wait for someone to come shine the light on us. We can do it."

This is a conversation about home, grief, masculinity, curiosity and the unbound potential of African creativity.

"It's a challenge and a privilege to be that bridge."

If you have ever felt in between cultures, careers or versions of yourself – this one is for you.

Connect with Nkosiyati 'Yati' Khumalo:

• Instagram: www.instagram.com/yatikhumalo

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/nkosiyatik

• Billboard Africa: www.africa.billboard.com

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Recorded at Vodcasttv