In 2018, Sjava collaborated with the soundtrack for Black Panther, the Marvel Cinematic Universe film, where he contributed the track "Seasons" alongside REASON and Mozzy. This exposure on such a globally recognized project introduced Sjava to international audiences and further solidified his place in the music world.

In the same year, he released his second studio album, Umqhele, which was met with critical acclaim. The album features breakthrough artists

like Mzukulu, Nue Sam, and Anzo, and went on to win Best Afro Pop Album and Album of the Year at the 2019 South African Music Awards

(SAMAs). Sjava was also nominated for Male Artist of the Year, Record of the Year, and Best Engineered Album. His achievements that year cemented his status as one of South Africa’s leading musical talents.

Beyond music, Sjava has expanded his reach into acting. He appeared in the television series Ehostela on Mzansi Magic and is set to make an

appearance in the highly anticipated show Shaka Ilembe. His versatility as both a musician and actor has earned him a loyal fanbase across

various forms of entertainment. In 2019, Sjava co-founded his own record label, 1020 Cartel, with award-winning music producer Mfanafuthi "Ruff" Nkosi. The label has since signed talented acts such as Nue Sam, Anzo, and Mzukulu, further solidifying Sjava’s influence in the industry.

Sjava continued his musical journey with the release of Isibuko in 2023. The album quickly garnered over 11 million streams in its first month and was certified Gold within that same period. Isibuko went on to win two SAMAs, including Best Afro Pop Album and Album of the Year. The album’s success was reflected in the numerous sold-out shows that Sjava headlined throughout South Africa, with support from artists like Dumakahle, Qwabe Twins, and Blaq Diamond.

Additionally, in 2023, Sjava teamed up with Big Zulu, forming the duo Inkabi Zezwe, and released their album Ukhamba. The album, and their collaboration, received immense attention, and they made the cover of GQ Magazine as pioneers in the music industry.

Sjava continued his musical journey with the release of Isibuko in 2023. The album quickly garnered over 11 million streams in its first month and was certified Gold within that same period. Isibuko went on to win two SAMAs, including Best Afro Pop Album and Album of the Year. The album’s success was reflected in the numerous sold-out shows that Sjava headlined throughout South Africa, with support from artists like

Dumakahle, Qwabe Twins, and Blaq Diamond. Additionally, in 2023, Sjava teamed up with Big Zulu, forming the duo Inkabi Zezwe, and released their album Ukhamba. 

The album, and their collaboration, received immense attention, and they made the cover of GQ Magazine as pioneers in the music industry. In 2022, Sjava hosted the sold-out Sjava Live in Durban at the ICC Durban, a two-night event that showcased his immense talent and fan following. In 2025, he released his Live EP titled Inkanyezi, which captures the energy and passion of his tours. Sjava’s live performances continue to draw massive crowds across South Africa.