Born Dainess Ziba, Lady Dyna came to Namibia from Zambia to pursue studies in social work but soon realised her great passion for singing.
She started her music career performing in church choirs and today the gospel artist has plenty of hit songs to her name.
In 2010, she became a back-up singer for award-winning gospel artist D-Naff, who became her husband soon after. She released her debut album, ‘The Design of Destiny’, on which she collaborated with big names such as Exit, D-Naff, Mark and Marvin B3, Prince Keddy and Tunakie in September 2014.
While Lady Dyna may have relocated to London, she’s still very much a part of the Namibian music industry. The move was prompted by getting a permanent job as a social worker in the UK, which also proved to be a dream come true for the songstress, who always aspired to live abroad.
Life overseas, however, is not always easy, as she misses her family a lot.
“My parents made me settle for Namibia. I can say it was God directing my path as I got to meet my loving husband and have two beautiful children. I love being Namibian now because I believe Namibia is my home and God is still at work,” she said.
According to Lady Dyna, moving to London has already bettered her life in many ways. She points to growth in all aspects of her life. Musically, she is working with a vocal coach.
“This was difficult in Namibia as we don’t have readily available vocal coaches. I have now become more open-minded and goal-oriented. I have also become very analytical and can apply theories into practice, because out here there are real-life situations that call for professionalism and commitment. Life is difficult back home because people still believe in trial and error while out here you learn, do and become,” she said.
The singer further said she has already fallen in love with London, particularly the lifestyle, affordability and outdoor activities. “If you love adventure, then this is a place to be. Life here is fast; if you are slow, you are left behind. Online shopping and deliveries are key here as they make life easier. Above all, I like the respect for human beings despite differences in colour, race and culture,” she said.
The artist, who is known for releasing great inspirational, praise and worship songs, said moving to London is also a step towards taking her music to an international audience – her hope since she started her music career.
“Already back then I remember I told myself that I will take my gospel international and will not just do music for Namibia, but for the world. I decided to grow my social work career as well as the Lady Dyna brand.”
Since the move, she says many people in Namibia have questioned her choices on social media, especially being away from her family, but Lady Dyna is adamant that a dream never comes true unless you act on it.
“Doubts will be there and a lot of things will be holding you back, especially when you are a family person, but if you have a vision for your family, you need to act and take the step,” she said. “We contribute to the development of our country by going out there.”
Lady Dyna is also a strong believer in women working hard and trying to achieve their dreams.
“Women were created to be helpers for men. A woman working helps the man achieve the vision for the family.”
The singer said she misses her family terribly but stays in touch with daily video calls.
“It feels like we live in the same house. My tips are keeping Jesus as the firm foundation in a relationship and letting him drive your relationship. Without Jesus, anyone can come in. I can say communication and praying together keeps the bond strong.”
On whether she will return to Namibia, Lady Dyna says she’s not sure. “Yes, of course, I would like to come back, unless God’s will says I stay. I have a permanent job here now, but my decision to stay permanently will depend on what God wants for my family.”
Asked what her fans can expect from her in future, Lady Dyna says her recent collaboration with award-winning gospel artist Obakeng from Botswana will be released before the end of the year.
– @rineldamouton on social media
