By: Natasha Archary

Mafikizolo lead singer Nhlanhla Mafu is raising awareness on nosie-induced hearing loss (NIHL) and her journey to regain her hearing.
Nhlanhla recently shared her journey with NIHL, insights and solutions with dedicated professionals in the mining environments.
The singer who has been exposed to high levels of noise over the past 27-years as a performing artist is on a mission to improve workplace safety and environments to prevent others from suffering hearing loss.
In an interview with TshisaLive, Nhlanhla shared that she first suspected she was suffering with hearing loss between 2012 and 2013 but was too afraid and ashamed to speak up about it.
Now, she has the courage to raise awareness on her condition NIHL after an audiologist diagnosed her in 2022.
“When I came into the music industry, there was no education about the importance of hearing and being provided with hearing protective equipment.
I performed at stages around the world for the past 27-years, exposed to high levels of noise during performances, studio sessions, listening sessions, where music would be played at very high volumes.
From my diagnosis, I have decided to use my platform to educate about NIHL. I speak in mining communities, music conferences, and industries to promote the importance of hearing. I was recently invited to the Coal Safe Conference where I addressed mining delegates on the importance of hearing.”
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