When it comes to building an international career in music, few stories are as inspiring as that of Uncle Waffles. From her beginnings as a young dreamer in Eswatini to commanding stages in the United States, she has consistently proven that resilience and self-belief can carry an artist further than circumstances might allow.
Recently, in a candid street interview with Confidenceheist’s David in SoHo, New York, Uncle Waffles shared what truly fuels her confidence and keeps her moving forward in an often unpredictable industry.
Asked what makes her confident, Uncle Waffles didn’t hesitate. “It’s my determination,” she explained. “I’ve always been determined because there’s no one there to come and help me, I’ve always been the one to be there for myself.” Her words painted a picture of an artist whose strength is born not of privilege, but of necessity.
The conversation took her back to her early struggles, especially the period after finishing high school. She recalled how difficult it was to secure funding for her studies and how she had to cover her own school fees. “That really made me strong because there were no means, it was just me and everything that was happening,” she reflected. This personal hardship became a foundation for her career, instilling in her the discipline and drive that continue to shape her journey.
Uncle Waffles connected those experiences to her pursuit of music, emphasizing that the industry constantly demands resilience. “I’m forever trying to do my best, I forever need to be strong to do this,” she said. Whether it was paying her way through school, moving to America as a young artist from a small country, or working to earn recognition on global stages, she has carried those lessons of self-reliance with her every step of the way.
When asked what advice she would give her younger self, her message was one of hope and perspective. “It gets better,” she shared earnestly. “It might not seem or feel like it in the moment because you feel like you are exempt from all the blessings that a lot of people are experiencing, but it definitely gets better.”
The interview offered a rare glimpse into the mindset behind Uncle Waffles’ success. Beyond the fame and performances, her story stands as a reminder of the quiet strength and determination that can inspire a generation of dreamers to keep chasing their goals, no matter the odds.
