Kangweson, born Paulus Leo Nghilifilwa in Oupumako in the Oshana region, about four kilometres from Ongwediva, is one of the big winners at this year's Ngoma Awards. He took home two awards: Best Album of the Year and Best Traditional Song of the Year.
"I believe it is because of the good music I have been giving the people. They proved it by voting me the best artist," he said.
The win came from more than releasing music. Kangweson ran a hands-on campaign, visiting towns and villages to speak to fans in person about his nomination, and used TikTok videos to promote his songs and remind followers to vote.
His songs draw on real events and experiences, and his melodies carry strong traditional influences. "Music always has to tell a story, something traditional that people used to do, just to carry the legacy and my culture," he said.
Music has also become his living. He earns from performances, hires his own stage and sound crew, and runs a studio from home. "Music made me. Music feeds me. Music changed me, and music made me a star today."
It is not his first major award: in 2024 he won Shipi FM's Favourite Song of the Year. "This victory means a lot to me. It recognises my hard work and shows that my fans are happy with what I am doing. I should continue to make good music for the people."
Also honoured at the ceremony were Shipi FM morning-show presenter Helen Andreas and artists including Omufenu WaNangula and Kaboi Kamakili.
