Anela Jahmena Shines on Behind The Song: The Open Mic Series

Cape Town singer Anela Jahmena has become the first featured artist on Behind The Song: The Open Mic Series, a platform dedicated to celebrating women in music. Known off stage as Otilia Stuurman, Anela offers fans an intimate look into her musical journey, revealing the personal experiences and creative influences behind her sound. The episode explores her songwriting process, her growth as an artist, and the real-life moments that have shaped her career over the years.

Hosted by Tshegofatso Seletedi, Behind The Song provides a space to honour female voices, spotlight their contributions, and create an archive of women shaping the music industry. Seletedi explained that the show’s goal is to inspire, educate, and highlight artists like Anela, giving them the recognition they deserve. Featuring Anela aligns with this mission, showcasing a woman whose music reflects authenticity, emotion, and resilience.

With a career spanning more than 16 years, Anela has built a strong reputation as both a solo artist and a key member of the acclaimed group SOS. Her music is known for its emotional depth, honesty, and compelling lyrics, earning her a dedicated following in Cape Town and across South Africa. She has performed on major European stages, including Berlin, Paris, Madrid, and Copenhagen, bringing her message of empowerment and resilience to international audiences.

The episode featuring Anela Jahmena premiered on YouTube on 8 February 2026 at 5pm. Fans are encouraged to tune in, engage with the conversation, and celebrate a woman whose music continues to inspire and shape the industry. Behind The Song highlights the power of female artists and reinforces the importance of visibility for women in music, ensuring their contributions are recognised and celebrated worldwide.

Anela’s appearance demonstrates how storytelling and personal insight can connect artists with their audiences. The series not only celebrates musical talent but also preserves the journeys of women whose voices often go unheard. Through her feature, Anela Jahmena cements her place as a leading figure in contemporary South African music and as a source of inspiration for aspiring artists everywhere.