Zama cried tears of joy as Proverb announced that she had just sung her way to becoming the 16th winner of the Idols SA competition.

In the process, Zama walks away with a cool R1 million, a recording deal from Kalawa Jazmee, R150 000 worth of the latest Samsung products, the all-new Toyota Starlet 1.4, R100 000 worth of fashion from Truworths, a Kymco Xciting 400 scooter worth R120 000 and R80 000 worth of musical instruments from Yamaha.

Ten months ago, Zama and Mr Music joined hundreds of young South Africans who dreamt of becoming the next South African Idol. Last night, that dream came true for Zama.

The Witbank-born winner took the leap to audition after encouragement from her loved ones. Despite her shy demeanor, she made it clear that she had the stage presence and star power to reach the top as this year’s Idols SA competition winner, with some of her performances bringing tears to judge Unathi Nkayi and praises from Somizi Mhlongo-Motaung.

With more than 20-million votes cast over the past week, last night’s announcement came at the end of a musical feast that brought together some of the most renowned Mzansi acts all on one stage, showcasing the best talent South Africa has to offer. Performers included last year’s Idols SA winner Luyolo Yiba, crowd favorite DJ Zinhle and Loyiso, Cassper Nyovest, Busiswa, Kamo Mphela, Reece Madlisa & Zuma, Ami Faku, Vusi Nova and not forgetting the Mzansi Gay Choir.

The night belonged to this year’s new talent, with the top 10 also returning for one last chance to perform on the Idols stage – and of course, lend their voices to support Zama and Mr Music.

Mr Music does not leave the stage empty-handed. The young man, who stood in a queue for more than 24 hours to get an opportunity to audition, walks away with R50 000 in cash from Samsung, along with some of the latest Samsung products, R50 000 in cash in an Old Mutual Money account and R50 000 worth of fashion from Truworths.