Standard Bank Young Artist, Siya Charles on The K Jazz Show

We’re thrilled to celebrate the 2025 recipients of the Standard Bank Young Artist Awards (SBYA) — an initiative that, for 40 years now, has honored creative excellence and fearless innovation in South African art.

Among the six remarkable trailblazers is Siyasanga “Siya” Charles, a Juilliard-trained trombonist whose global career and bold artistic voice have earned her this prestigious accolade. Known for her powerful work with the Siya Charles Sextet and collaborations with legends like Hugh Masekela, Siya is redefining the future of South African jazz.