In a recent interview with My Kasi Magazine senior journalist Tapiwa Rubaya (TR), Leopatra R. A. Reid also known as Just Leo (JL) shares more on her incredible life and musical journey, from finding her voice in church and cover bands to sharing stages with music legends like PJ Powers and EX Q.

She opens up about her Afro-fusion sound, which blends Nyanja, Tonga, Shona, and Nambya influences, creating a unique vibe that’s all her own. Just Leo also shares exciting updates on her upcoming projects, including new music and collaborations that are sure to take her career to the next level. With her infectious energy and undeniable talent, it’s no wonder Just Leo’s making waves in the music scene.

TR: A warm welcome to our readers, Just Leo! Could you take a moment to introduce yourself and share a bit about your journey as an artist?
JL: Thank you for having me .I go by JustLeo, an Afro-fusion artist based in the beautiful Victoria Falls. My journey has been a challenging but beautiful blend of self-discovery, culture, and a unique sound. I started off finding my voice in spaces like church , cover bands , experimenting with different sounds, and slowly building that unique sound. Over time, the music grew from just passion into purpose. Now it’s not just about making songs, it’s about telling stories that heal, connect, and inspire together with the help of my family the Simuniziva band. My goal is to take the world by storm one song at a time.

TR: The name Just Leo is quite unique – can you tell us the story behind it and what inspired you to choose it as your artist name?
JL: “Just Leo” is honestly me choosing simplicity and truth. Leo is who I am at my core raw, expressive, emotional. The “Just” part is a reminder to stay grounded and authentic. No masks, no pressure to be anything else. It’s me saying, this is who I am and I have so much to say!

TR: As an artist based in Victoria Falls, what does it mean to you to create music in such a breathtaking environment, and how does it influence your sound?
JL: Victoria Falls is more than just a place—it’s energy. The sound of the water, the stillness of the bush, the rhythm of the people… it all finds its way into my music. There’s something spiritual and ancestral about creating in a space that powerful. It reminds me to make music that feels alive and authentic , that flows, that carries emotion the same way the Falls (Mosi Oa Tunya) carry water—loud when it needs to be, gentle when it must.

TR: Your culture and heritage seem to play a significant role in your music – can you share how your roots have shaped your artistic style and the stories you tell through your songs?
JL: My roots are everything and as a mixed race woman we don’t always have proper knowledge of where we come from however living in Victoria falls I had the privilege of being around different cultures, languages, and traditions which raised as well as shaped how I hear and express music. You’ll hear Nyanja , Tonga, Shona and Nambya influences in my sound—not just in language, but in rhythm, storytelling, and emotion.

In African culture, music is never just music—it’s prayer , it’s celebration, it’s healing. That’s what I carry into every song. Whether I’m singing about love, gratitude, or pain, it always comes from a place of truth and heritage.

TR: You’ve said that every part of your music is a love letter to your fans – what does that mean to you, and how do you hope your music makes them feel?
JL: When I say my music is a love letter, I mean it deeply. Every lyric, every melody is intentional. It’s me speaking to someone who needs hope, someone who feels unseen, someone who just wants to feel something real.

I want my fans to feel SEEN & HELD. I want them to feel understood, celebrated, and reminded that they’re not alone. If one song can change someone’s day or mindset, then I’ve done my job well.

TR: You’ve had the incredible opportunity to share stages and headline with some big names in the industry, like PJ Powers, EX Q, Nyasha David, and Gemma – what does it mean to your career to have been able to work with such talented artists?
JL: It’s truly humbling. Sharing a stage with legends and incredible artists like PJ Powers, EX Q, Nyasha David, and Gemma is both an honor and a learning experience.

Each of them carries their own story and energy, and being in those spaces pushes me to grow, to sharpen my craft, and to dream bigger. It’s a reminder that the journey is unfolding exactly how it’s meant to and no matter how difficult the path may be , consistency and patience will get you to your destination.

TR: Your collaborations are always highly anticipated – your designer, Tocar, is an award-winning designer, and we’ve loved the visuals he’s created for your music. How has working with him impacted your music career, and what can we expect from your brand in the future?
JL: Working with Tocar has been a game-changer. He understands that music is not just heard—it’s seen and felt and we share the same vision of elevating the arts industry in Victoria Falls to a global level. The identity we’ve built together for JustLeo and Simuniziva band is intentional, bold, and deeply rooted in culture.

Our Goal is to put our city on the map not only just for tourism but specifically for the amazing culture and languages that are being used in the Arts so with Every outfit, every visual we tell a story before I even step on stage. Moving forward, you can expect an even stronger fusion of breathtaking fashion, music, and storytelling—something that feels proudly African but globally resonant from both TOCAR & JUSTLEO.

TR: What’s next for Just Leo? Are there any exciting projects or releases on the horizon that you’re willing to share with us?
JL: There’s a lot brewing , especially for this year!
New music is definitely on the way— as I am yet to release singles such as KUSASA (a song of hope in a time when the world seems to be heading in an uncertain path) , MUDZIMU weZAMBEZI (a tribute to the powerful Zambezi river , bamulonga tribe and Victoria falls) just to mention a few , I believe these are sounds that push the Afro-fusion space while staying true to my roots. I’m also working on more visual storytelling, live experiences, and collaborations that will elevate the sound of JustLeo.

Let’s just say… the next chapter is louder, deeper, and more intentional.

TR: As a role model to many young artists, what advice would you give to those just starting out in the music industry?
JL: Stay true to your voice. It’s easy to chase trends, but longevity comes from authenticity. Invest in your craft, be patient with your journey, and build a team that believes in you.

And most importantly don’t wait for permission. Start where you are, with what you have. Your story matters.

TR: Last but not least, what message would you like to share with your fans and supporters, and how can they stay connected with you and your music?
JL: To everyone supporting the journey I cannot thank you enough as this is difficult road but your support is everything —ngiyabonga, tatenda, thank you .
You are the reason the music exists.
Stay connected with me on all platforms @JustLeozw , come through to the shows, stream the music, share it, feel it. This is our journey together.

And always remember. No matter what is happening “Kusasa kuyokhanya”.