Lekompo star Kharishma has officially added another major milestone to her fast-rising career, winning Best Newcomer at the 2026 Metro FM Music Awards, while her family accepted the award on her behalf in an emotional moment that underscored both her impact and her resilience.
With Kharishma unable to attend the ceremony due to her ongoing recovery following a serious car accident, her brother, Nthekgeng Mogale, stepped forward to receive the award on behalf of both the artist and Kharishma Entertainment.
Holding the trophy in hand, Mogale described the win as both a personal triumph for Kharishma and a defining moment for the Lekompo genre at large.
“This Award Belongs to the Whole Lekompo Genre”
While Kharishma may have been recognised individually, her family made it clear that the win represents something much bigger than one artist.
According to Mogale, Kharishma’s Best Newcomer win is not only a reflection of her rapid rise, but a moment of validation for Lekompo as one of South Africa’s most important emerging genres.
“This is an award for the whole genre,” he said.
“Lekompo is a pioneering and emerging genre in the music industry, and all Lekompo artists should celebrate this award together because it represents the work that so many artists have put in to place the genre on the map.”
The win marks a major cultural moment for the Limpopo-born sound, which has rapidly grown from regional popularity into one of the country’s most exciting grassroots movements.
Family Shares Update on Kharishma’s Recovery
Kharishma’s absence from the ceremony followed growing concern from fans after news emerged of her involvement in a serious car accident late last year.
Providing clarity on her condition, Mogale confirmed that Kharishma was involved in a severe accident on 31 October, describing it as a tragic incident in which lives were lost.
“Kharishma got involved in a very bad accident on the 31st of October. It was very bad. It was fatal, people lost their lives,” he said.
Despite the severity of the accident, he shared that Kharishma has been recovering steadily and that the family remains deeply grateful for her progress.
“God has given us an opportunity to assist her, and she has been recovering. Her recovery is looking good so far, and we are thankful to God that she has been given an opportunity to work her way up again and come back to entertain her fans.”
New Music Is Still on the Way
Even amid her recovery, Kharishma’s musical momentum has not been lost.
Mokgale confirmed that the Lekompo star had already been working on multiple new projects and collaborations prior to the accident, with releases expected once she is fully ready to return.
“She has been working with other artists and collaborating before the accident,” he said.
“As soon as she is ready, it will just be a matter of touch-ups, and then we will be ready to go.”
The update signals that Kharishma’s return to music may be closer than many fans expected, with unfinished work already in motion behind the scenes.
Fans Praised for Standing by Her
In one of the most emotional moments of the evening, Mokgale thanked Kharishma’s supporters for continuing to rally behind her during one of the most difficult periods of her life and career.
Since October, Kharishma has been unable to perform, campaign, or actively promote herself, making the win especially meaningful given the circumstances.
“Since October, Kharishma has not been able to take gigs and perform on stage. But for fans to still vote for her, nominate her, and show her this love when she has not been available to campaign, I am deeply moved,” he said.
He also acknowledged the outpouring of support from fans, community members, and provincial leadership, describing the family as overwhelmed by the love shown during her recovery.
“The messages, the prayers, and the support from the community have been very emotional for us. We are very grateful.”
A Win That Could Fuel Her Comeback
For Kharishma’s family, the award is more than recognition, it is motivation.
Mogale said the family believes presenting the trophy to Kharishma will serve as a powerful reminder of how deeply she is loved and how strongly her supporters are waiting for her return.
“When we bring this award to her and say, ‘Sissy, you have won Best Newcomer,’ I am sure it will motivate her to work even harder and come back into the industry.”
