Amapiano sensation Young Stunna has officially joined the PUMA family as one of the brand’s newest ambassadors, alongside fellow artist Zee Nxumalo. Known for his soulful voice and magnetic stage presence, Stunna brings his authenticity and vibrant energy to PUMA’s latest Speedcat campaign. In an exclusive interview, he shared his journey into music, his experience as a brand ambassador, and what this partnership means to him.
Stunna’s passion for music began in his childhood home. “I like expressing, and like many people my singing started in church. We would hold Sunday services in my home in Benoni, and people would come from as far as Soweto to attend,” he shared.
His first taste of performing came at an early age: “I was about 15 or 16. Me and my brother Dumela, we went to primary school together, started performing Hip Hop songs as the Mighty Kings. That was my first time as a performer.”
Fast forward a few years, and Stunna found his footing in Amapiano. “I got introduced to a whole family in the industry, who support me with songwriting and producing including Mdu aka TRP, Nkulee 501, Skroef 28, and Kabza De Small. I learnt to write songs with these four or five producers working with me on a single song. It is all about collaboration. My photographer Nyiko (@opticalillusion.jpeg) is also always by my side capturing content for my social media channels,” he explained.
Young Stunna’s relationship with PUMA began unexpectedly. “It all started with Uncle Riky (Rick) in about 2021,” he recalled. “We walked into a PUMA store, and he and he said lock the doors and he bought up the shop! I became an instant PUMA fan and have rocked the look.”
Now an official ambassador, Stunna shines in PUMA’s Speedcat campaign, donning the fiery red Speedcat sneakers and custom-styled denims. “It was a dream to work with PUMA. The brand is for everyone, and I fell in love with all the creative collabs.,” he said.
In November, Stunna organized and headlined a live concert at Carnival City, an electrifying experience that showcased his versatility. “It was a dream to perform at Carnival City. I was also the event organiser so, I had to stress about ticket sales, everything. But I have a lot of people who support me, and they all came through for me. We rehearsed for two weeks and on the day, it was electrifying. Breathtaking,” he said. “It was also closing a chapter on my first album, saying goodbye to it as I was about to introduce a new sound.”
Speaking about doing the live again, he said, “Yes, because now I know I can organise a live concert, I will do one for my second album.
For aspiring musicians, his advice is simple but profound: “Music can change your life for the better. Stay prayed up. I come from a family that worships. Know that praying and sitting doesn’t work. You need to pray and do the work! Whatever you sell on the corner, needs to help your dream..”
Giving advice to his 10-year-old self, he said, “Things take their time. Don’t give up on the dreams. If you love something, it will give you lots of love back.”
As the year comes to a close, Young Stunna is grateful for his fans’. “Thank you for your constant love; you always guard my back. I have a lot of stories to tell and 2025 is going to be a great year..”
With his boundless talent and infectious energy, Young Stunna is not only a star in the music world but also a beacon of inspiration for anyone chasing their dreams.