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Ntombie debuts book on grief and depression – ‘I had to revisit painful memories'
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After losing her mother at the age of eight years old, her father became her pillar of strength.
Her father, who is a priest at a local church in Zidedele, a village outside Empangeni in KwaZulu-Natal, raised her alone.
Before they both knew it, Ntombenhle Shobede was leading songs in the church choir and eventually in the school choir in the late 90's.
With the knowledge of music she accumulated in these choirs, she went on to join the Star for Life choir, for which scouts from Sweden hunted her.
Country in, country out, she traveled the world with the Star for Life choir and was selected as the ambassador for the international group.
Shortly after that, she pivoted into being a solo artist and recorded her music in Sweden.
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In 2017, she brought it all home with a single dedicated to her father titled Right Beside Me.
Her resilience and triumph have since been a beacon of inspiration. From surviving grief, and depression, now award-winning singer, songwriter, author, entrepreneur, and inspirational speaker fondly known as Ntombie shares her story to inspire others in her book titled Notes Of Grace (Surviving The Storm).
'To write about grief, mental health, and resilience - I had to revisit painful memories: losing my mom at a tender age, the deep sense of abandonment that followed, failed relationships, and battles with depression,' Ntombie says.
Notes Of Grace (Surviving the Storm) is a deeply moving reflection on her journey through grief, mental health struggles, self-discovery, faith, and spiritual awakening. The book serves as a testimony of resilience and a beacon of hope for others walking similar paths. Ntombie uses her voice on stage, in her writing, and through her business to share messages of healing, faith, and purpose.
The 34-year-old shares that Notes of Grace (Surviving the Storm) is her first published book, turning a new chapter in her musical journey spanning over two decades.
'While I've shared my story through music, there were parts of my journey that needed more space, and deeper emotions that music alone couldn't hold. Writing gave me that space.
'I first started working on the book in 2013, then revisited it in 2024. But it was only this year, over the past few months, that I truly felt God guiding me on what. He wanted me to share my recent experiences, along with the inspiration I drew from working with young people gave me the clarity and courage to finally finish it. This process was a roller coaster of emotions,' She elaborates on how long it took her to lay her heart on paper.
After writing the book, Ntombie also found the kind of healing she never thought she needed.
'It wasn't easy, but the process brought so much closure and healing. I reflected, made peace with my past, and saw how God's grace truly carried me through.'
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She adds that she'd like readers of her book to see themselves in the pages documenting her life.
'I hope readers see themselves in those pages, that they're reminded healing is possible, purpose can rise from pain, and grace will always meet us right where we are. I also hope it encourages us all to be a little gentler and kinder with one another.'
Ntombie is also the founder of Ladie Ntombie, a dynamic company that offers creative services in event planning, music, and motivational programs, especially aimed at empowering women and youth. Through this platform, she continues to inspire and uplift communities by blending storytelling, music, and mentorship. As a long-time ambassador for an international organisation, Ntombie has dedicated her life to empowering young people - especially girls' education, personal development, and faith-based motivation.
In 2024, she was also honored with the Best Newcomer Award at the Ingoma Awards for her powerful debut into the gospel music scene. Her music is rooted in faith and healing and continues to inspire audiences both locally and abroad.
