“Love begins with an acceptance of oneself. The misconceptions exist because we buy into other people’s standards of what is acceptable. We then start to believe that we are not pretty enough, not good enough, not smart enough... Just not enough of anything. This leaves a void in us and we need it to be filled, so we open ourselves up to all kinds of unfortunate circumstances, simply because we are trying to fill this emptiness.”

- That’s the unequivocal message from the young and talented singing sensation, Lerato Molapo-Kohl fondly known as “Lira”. She needs no introductions as her accolades speak on her behalf. They include, but are not limited to, winning nine South African Music Awards, two Channel O Awards and being hailed Woman of the Year by Glamour Magazine South Africa in 2008.

Her reputation surpasses her. Not just when it comes to past glory, but current and upcoming pursuits of greatness. Her song "Change it All" from her sophomore album Feel Good will appear as the theme music in Oprah's Winfrey forthcoming OWLAG, a documentary surrounding her Leadership Academy for Girls based in South Africa which will air on her OWN Network.

 Lira was also recently nominated for Best International Act at the upcoming 2012 BET Awards which will take place on 1 July in Los Angeles. She has also recently secured a lead role in the Antonio Falduto directed drama The Italian Consul – she will be going to Italy at the end of June for that release.

 “The problem is we are often all broken so we are not able to fill one another’s voids and the cycle carries on. When we get to a point where we bring full acceptance into who we are, then we open ourselves up to filling this void with a love that comes from within. It becomes a self-generated confidence that does not need anything outside in order to exist,” says the Afro Soul celebrity who grew up in Daveyton, a township in Johannesburg’s East Rand, Gauteng (Republic of South Africa).

According to Lira, the enlightenment thereof is when one can get to a point where you can share it without feeling like it is being taken away or that it will run out. She describes this as a deep understanding that brings about healing. In a nutshell, it starts with self-acceptance which brings about love and care for oneself.

“I just want listeners to feel great when listening to my music. I know life is tough and the global economy places people in an uneasy space… My music brings messages of hope, comfort, celebration. It’s meant to make you feel good through all of life’s trials and tribulations,” says Lira when asked if she has any special message for Wedding Anthem and the readers thereof.

 ~ Photo by Jurie Potgieter. Used with permission from http://www.misslira.com.

Youth Day (June 16) insert

 Lira is very optimistic about the future of the youth in South Africa and works with schools, the Change4Ever and Southern Africa Trust organizations to try and help kids understand that everyone can make a difference.

 “There is always something that one has the power to do to make a difference, starting with their own environment. I do realize that some of our problems will take a lifetime to solve but we will make a greater impact if we all get involved. We live in a time where we [youth] are faced with many challenges. Giving up on life and behaving recklessly has very adverse effects. Changing our attitude is the first step to creating that change. One's youth is the time to use all your energy towards building a future for yourself, use it wisely- no excuses!” she says.

The songbird kindly shared her secret for success to the rest of her peers. They pertained to possessing a good attitude and a strong work ethic. “We have a choice RIGHT NOW to change our lives around and redirect it to a more empowering direction. The circumstances under which we are born do not determine where we end up.

When I was younger, I was working in accounting/finance and had decided to put my dreams on hold. I wasn't happy. I decided to take a chance. I was broke but determined, inspired and capable and that changed my fortune. If I can do it, anyone can,” concludes Lira.

Show your support. Stay in touch with Lira!

Facebook, click here.
Twitter, click here.
Website, click here.
To purchase Lira’s new EP on iTunes, click here.

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