DJ Shimza Net Worth 2025: Biography, Age, Career, Family, and More

Celebrities News / October 22, 2025 / Melly Brown

If you’re searching for details on DJ Shimza’s net worth in 2025, his inspiring biography, age, career milestones, family life, and more, you’ve come to the right place. DJ Shimza, whose real name is Ashley Raphala, has risen from humble beginnings in South Africa to become a global icon in the Afro-house music scene. Known for his electrifying performances and philanthropic efforts, Shimza’s story is one of talent, perseverance, and success. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll dive into everything you need to know about this South African DJ sensation as of 2025.

Who Is DJ Shimza? A Quick Biography

DJ Shimza bio DJ Shimza, born Kholofelo Ashley Raphala on May 15, 1984, is a prominent South African DJ, music producer, and promoter. While some sources indicate he was born in Swaziland (now Eswatini), he was raised in Tembisa township, Ekurhuleni, South Africa, where his passion for music took root. At just 15 years old, Shimza developed a keen interest in music, setting the stage for a remarkable career in house music.

By 2003, he had fully immersed himself in the DJ world, blending Afro-tech sounds that would later define his style. His early wins in competitions like the 2006 Red Square DJ Competition and the 2011 Gauteng Carnival DJ Competition provided him with essential exposure and equipment to kickstart his professional journey. Today, at 41 years old in 2025, Shimza stands as a testament to how dedication can turn local talent into international stardom.

DJ Shimza’s Career Highlights and Achievements

Shimza’s career exploded after signing with Soulistic Music in 2013, a label that boasts heavyweights like Black Coffee and Culoe De Song. His debut album, Shimuzic (2015), marked his entry into the big leagues, followed by hits that solidified his place in the Afro-house genre.

Key milestones include:

2016: Released One Man Show album and made waves with his philanthropic event of the same name, which he started in 2009 to support underprivileged children in Tembisa by providing school uniforms, stationery, and job opportunities.
2019: Dropped Eminence and won Best Male DJ at the South African Dance Music Awards.
2020: Collaborated on the Gold-certified track “Uwrongo” with Black Motion, Prince Kaybee, and Ami Faku, which topped Radiomonitor Charts.
2021: Released Kimberly album.
2022: Won Favourite DJ at the DStv Mzansi Viewers Choice Awards and released “Higher” featuring Nobuhle.
2024: Dropped the EP Dreaming and singles like “Darling” with Aloe Blacc and “Parachute” with Rachel Chinouriri.

Shimza’s international footprint grew rapidly, with tours across Europe and North America, including a 2018 residency at Privilege in Ibiza. Nicknamed the “Effect Master” and “Vinyl Assassin,” his sets are known for intricate queuing, looping, and infectious energy. He has performed at major events like the Spring Fiesta and alongside legends like Luciano and Black Coffee.

In addition to music, Shimza is a savvy entrepreneur with business ventures contributing to his empire, including event promotion and brand collaborations.

DJ Shimza Net Worth in 2025

As of 2025, DJ Shimza’s net worth is estimated at around $5 million (approximately R90 million, based on current exchange rates). This figure comes from his successful music career, including album sales, international tours, and high-profile gigs where he ranks among South Africa’s highest-paid DJs. While rumors have circulated about figures exceeding R1 billion, Shimza himself has clarified that his wealth, though substantial, is more grounded.

His income streams include:

Performance fees from global events and residencies.
Music production and royalties from hits like “Uwrongo” and “African Woman.”
Business ventures, such as his One Man Show events and potential investments in cars and real estate (he’s known to own luxury vehicles like a G-Wagon).
Endorsements and collaborations with brands like Ballantine’s.

Compared to other top South African DJs, Shimza trails behind Black Coffee ($60 million) but outpaces many peers like DJ Zinhle ($3 million) and DJ Oskido ($2.6 million).

DJ Shimza career

DJ Shimza’s Family and Personal Life

DJ Shimza keeps his personal life relatively private, but here’s what we know as of 2025. He has been in a long-term relationship with Athi Geleba for over 12 years, a partnership often celebrated for its stability and lack of scandals. The couple frequently shares loved-up moments on social media, inspiring fans who urge Shimza to propose. Athi, who works in government communications, has been by his side through his career highs.

Shimza is also a father to a daughter, forming a close-knit family unit with Athi. Previously, he dated model K Naomi, but they parted ways amicably before his relationship with Athi began.

On the home front, Shimza owns a luxurious house in South Africa, which he has showcased on Instagram, along with his impressive car collection. His philanthropic side shines through his One Man Show, reflecting his commitment to giving back to his community.

DJ Shimza’s Discography: Albums, EPs, and Top Songs

Shimza’s music catalog is a blend of Afro-house rhythms and global influences. Here’s a breakdown:

Studio Albums

Shimuzic (2015)
One Man Show (2016)
Eminence (2019)
Kimberly (2021)

Extended Plays (EPs)

Dreaming (2024)

Notable Singles

“African Woman” (2010s hit)
“Akulalwa”
“Uwrongo” (2020) ft. Black Motion, Prince Kaybee, Ami Faku
“Higher” (2022) ft. Nobuhle
“Darling” (2024) ft. Aloe Blacc
“Parachute” ft. Rachel Chinouriri
“Bado” ft. CamelPhat, Idd Aziz
“Citadelle” ft. Maline Aura

His tracks often feature on platforms like Spotify and YouTube, with mixes available on SoundCloud and his official website.

Final Thoughts on DJ Shimza

DJ Shimza’s journey from a Tembisa teen with a dream to a multi-millionaire Afro-house powerhouse is nothing short of inspirational. With a net worth of $5 million in 2025, a thriving career, and a supportive family, he continues to dominate the music scene while uplifting others. Follow him on Instagram (@shimza.dj) for the latest updates, tour dates, and new releases.