PJ Powers And Zoë Zana Unite For Powerful Anthem

By: Venecia Valentine

Music legends PJ Powers and Zoë Zana have released “Salute The Brave,” a powerful new single created for the TEARS Foundation to raise awareness of gender-based violence in South Africa.

A unified musical tribute

Blending PJ’s iconic vocals with Zoë’s modern, soulful energy, the song stands as an uplifting tribute to survivors. It celebrates courage, resilience and the collective fight for a safer nation. With soaring harmonies and a strong South African spirit, “Salute The Brave” inspires listeners to stand together and take action.

Supporting survivors across South Africa

The TEARS Foundation is a national nonprofit offering 24/7 support for survivors of sexual assault, domestic violence and abuse. Through its helpline and partner network, TEARS connects individuals to emergency care, counselling, legal help and safe spaces.

Two powerhouse artists with shared purpose

This collaboration brings together two artists and an organisation committed to healing and hope. PJ Powers, known as “Thandeka,” continues her legacy of championing unity through music.

PJ told Inbound SA Magazine: “I have always wanted to work with Ministry of Illusion and jumped at the opportunity to be able to songwrite in this format. I felt to truly be heard by all whose lives have been affected by GBV it was necessary to bring someone young and vibrant on board, it was not difficult to realise the Zoe Zana who has a history of GBV in her family was the right person. She is a beacon of pride for young women.

“For too long we have witnessed Gender Based Violence. I no long want to be part of the problem, I am determined to become part of the solution. GBV has become way too normalised. I believe that there are enough strong women to stop this war on women.”

Zoë Zana adds power and perspective

Zoë Zana, known since her Idols SA breakthrough, brings bold vocal fire and fresh energy to the track.

“This collaboration came together most powerfully and organically. The song was written as a response to the ongoing fight against Gender Based Violence in South Africa, a reflection of the pain, the reality, and the rising strength of reclaiming your voice, Zoë added.

PJ reached out to me personally and asked if I’d join the project, and being called to work with an icon from a different era who helped shape South Africa’s musical and cultural landscape was an honour. It felt like a full-circle moment, two generations aligning for a purpose bigger than both of us.

“The inspiration came from the harsh truth of South Africa’s extremely high GBV rates and the urgency to speak up, stand up, and create something that can empower others. It’s a song about resilience, healing, and remembering the power of your voice. Our country is going through so much, and music has always been one of the strongest tools for awareness and change, so this track is our contribution to that ongoing fight.”

A shared creative process

Ministry of Illusions, PJ Powers and Zoë contributed equally to the writing process. Each offered creativity, perspective and emotional truth.

“We also incorporated innovative AI tools through Ministry of Illusions to support and enhance the creative process and make this track extra lekker, making this track a blend of human experience and modern technology”, Zoë concludes.

A call to stand against GBV

The anthem is available on major streaming platforms. Join PJ Powers, Zoë Zana and the TEARS Foundation in saluting the brave and standing against gender based violence.