Mkhize belted out her rendition of Adele’s One & Only to beat other six hopefuls to be crowned the top songstress in the competition and take home R25 000 in cash. The runner up was Precious Mahlangu of Pretoria, who took home a cash prize of R15 000 and Zamambo Mkhize from KwaZulu-Natal who sealed the third spot to take the R10 000 prize.

VOM is McDonald’s employee singing contest, showcasing the talents of its crew and managers and 2013 saw six finalists from across the country pitted against each other to compete for the coveted VOM title. The rest of the contestant’s, Chesna Lategan from Cape Town, Karabo Moloi of Soweto and Goodness Maphumulo from KwaZulu-Natal all received R3000 in cash for their efforts in the competition.

The competition, which is in its fifth year, saw renowned jazz musician, Judith Sephuma; VOM ambassador and Joyous Celebration gospel choir singer; Nhlanhla Zofo; and Mbusi Dlamini, a music director judging the finals.

“Huge congratulations to Samkelisiwe and the runner’s up in the Voice of McDonald’s competition. All the contestants and winners worked hard to make it this far and it really shows that hard work pays off. Well done to you,” says Sechaba Motsieloa, Corporate Affairs director of McDonald’s South Africa.