WATCH: Unathi Nkayi breaks down in tears on air after heartwarming birthday messages from fans

Fans adore Unathi Nkayi not just for her talent, but for her remarkable honesty and ability to be vulnerable.

She wears her heart on her sleeve, letting herself feel every emotion fully—a quality that makes her so magnetic. Viewers got a front-row seat to this side of her during her time as a judge on Idols SA, the hit singing competition, where her genuine reactions and heartfelt moments won hearts week after week.

Recently, as Unathi celebrated her birthday, that authenticity shone through in a deeply touching moment that left her in tears—live on air.

So this is the tea y’all:

On her birthday, Unathi received an outpouring of love from fans during her radio show, 938 Whats Next, which she co-hosts with DJ Fresh.

The show broadcasts on their brand-new radio station, 938 FM, and airs every morning from 9-12 PM. So, to celebrate her special day, fans sent in heartfelt voice notes filled with love, appreciation, and admiration, which Unathi played live on air.

As she listened to these messages, it became clear that the words went far beyond simple birthday wishes. Listeners spoke candidly about the profound impact she has on their lives, the way she makes them feel seen and valued, and how her kindness, authenticity, and warmth leave a lasting impression wherever she goes.

The messages were so touching and moving that Unathi, true to her vulnerable nature, could not hold back her emotions and broke down in tears in the studio.

For those who were not tuned in to the live broadcast, don’t worry. Unathi made sure the moment was shared with everyone. So she hopped onto Instagram to post a video of herself in that emotional moment in studio and wrote a caption, personally thanking fans for their beautiful messages and kind words.

This is what she wrote:

“THANK YOU to all of you for your LOVE. This was intensely beautiful to say the least. To the beautiful souls who recorded these messages. To all of you who sent messages, comments and called. THANK YOU,” she wrote.

And of course, she shared the video so everyone could witness that touching moment. Let’s watch:

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