Sibongile Buda, also known as Ms Buda Bass, hails from Mamelodi, South Africa, and is a
multifaceted artist. As a bassist, composer, music teacher, band conductor, co-founder, and
program director, her musical journey finds roots in her grandmother’s influence, who
played an African drum in church. Growing up in a musically rich environment, Sibongile
discovered her passion for music and joined the Committed Artist for Cultural Advancement
(CAFCA) program through childhood friends.
Currently, Sibongile serves as a music teacher at CAFCA, focusing on enhancing music skills

for children in disadvantaged communities. Inspired by her experiences with CAFCA, she co-
founded Jazz Camp for Female Instrumentalists Mamelodi (JCFI), an all-female organization

aiming to groom and empower young females in the arts. JCFI provides a safe platform for
female artists to showcase their talents and overcome challenges.
Sibongile’s musical journey includes performances at various international events, such as
the Molde Jazz Festival in Norway and the Jazz Education Network (JEN) conference in New
Orleans. In 2016, she recorded the All-female album “Mother Tongue,” and in 2019, she
hosted the Tsebo Heritage festival to honour the elderly and released a poetry book.
Notably, she authored a book in 2023 on women making and playing Africa indigenous
instruments in six languages.
Currently, Sibongile hosts and produces an online space for Jazzwomen globally, providing a
safe environment for women to share experiences and knowledge. She serves as the vice
president for the League of Women Bass players in Atlanta and was recently selected as the
International president for Women in Jazz South Florida, Inc.