GOSPEL singer Omega Khunou is taking a leadership role on Spirit of Praise.
Omega started in the group as a junior before becoming one of the lead singers. He's now taking a leadership role with the departure of Bishop Benjamin Dube.
The 44-year-old Omega spoke to Daily Sun about his time in the group and his growth.
He said: "Honestly speaking, this journey has only been possible because of the grace of God. That's the truth. When I think back to how I started, I wasn't confident in my voice. In fact, I was one of those people who doubted if I even belonged in the music industry. I didn't come in as someone who thought: ‘Yes, I've made it.' I came in unsure. But I knew I had a calling.
"I joined Spirit of Praise back in 2010. I was just a background vocalist. Nothing special. Just someone standing behind the big names. Then one day, I was asked to try a song. And after that, more songs followed, more chances came. That's when I saw that the Spirit of Praise team was beginning to trust me.'
Omega said his growth with the group came with hard work.
"It's been a journey of learning, pushing myself, understanding what the people want and constantly asking God to guide me. You have to come up with something fresh every time we release a new volume. You can't relax or take it for granted.
"You have to pray, research, rehearse and go deeper every time. And little did I know that management was watching me all along. They came to me and said, ‘We've seen how you work. Your songs are loved. You support your fellow singers. You carry yourself with humility. And we believe it's time you take on more responsibility'. And that's how this leadership role came about," he said.
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However, Omega said they are not trying to replace Bishop Benjamin Dube.
"No one can replace uBaba Benjamin Dube. That name carries too much weight. That legacy is sacred. I wouldn't even dare to say I'm stepping into his shoes because those shoes were made for him and him alone.
"What I am doing, together with my brother, Dumi Mkokstad, is continue the work. We've been given the responsibility to anchor the group, to lead with love and vision and to keep Spirit of Praise moving forward, but in our own way," he said.
He said fans can expect more music and more movement from the group.
"We're going to be touring soon, and we've made it a point to include new voices. We gave two fresh faces a chance to sing during the last recording and that's not a coincidence.
"Dumi and I believe it's our duty to open doors for others, especially for young people who are gifted but just need a chance. That's what was done for me and now it's my turn to do it for others," he said.
Omega also shared that he's working on his own personal project.
"I'll be recording my solo live project on 2 May 2026. It's something special and I'm excited for people to hear what God is doing through me," he said.
