What does winning the Rock Against Trafficking Sting-Cover Contest mean to you? 
The fact that I can be part of raising awareness about something extremely important like child trafficking across the world, is priceless to me. Being a mother myself, makes this cause very near and dear to my heart. Music is such a powerful tool and I am honored to raise my voice about child trafficking.
What inspired you to become a musician?
Music started off as an escape for me. It was never my real dream or intention to be a professional artist. But as the years went by, I realized that it was my calling in life and that I could touch and inspire thousands around the world through my songs and performances.
What surprises have you encountered in pursuing your music career?
It is no secret that the music business is a very tough and competitive industry. As a woman, there are countless surprises around each corner. The biggest surprises are always when I’m in foreign countries and witness strangers connecting to my songs and mouthing my lyrics.
What has been your biggest challenge to date?
With the industry changing so much over the last decade, the challenge I’ve always had has intensified more. And the challenge is to stay in the game, to be seen and to be heard.
What’s your process for writing lyrics and where do you get the inspiration for your songs?
I have no set process. Each song comes to me in a different way. Whether it be a melody first and then a theme for lyrics. On many occasions I have written songs in my sleep. I always get my inspiration from personal life experiences. I grew up in South Africa and have an ocean of stories to tell, pain, suffering and sadness. But along these dark journeys, I’ve always managed to survive and come out on top. For me, these are the stories I like to share. Stories of perseverance, victory and belief that there is hope at the end of every storm.
Tell us about your most memorable performances.
Without a doubt, my two tours to Afghanistan are at the top of my list. I’ve also done a bunch of charity events, fundraisers and benefits for causes I truly believe in. Doing this always makes me feel like I’m contributing, even if it’s in a small way, to make changes in our world.
Have you shared the stage with anyone we would know?
I have opened for many big names- Aerosmith, Joe Cocker, Beth Hart, Motorhead, Velvet Revolver, Puddle of Mudd, London Choirboys, The Bangles, Golden Earring, Lynyrd Skynyrd, the Doobie Brothers, Sebastien Bach and many others. I’ve also performed live with Tommy Lee, Jason Newsted, Gilby Clarke, Dave Navarro, Adrian Young, Terri Nunn and more. I was the first and only female lead vocalist for LA Guns for two tours.
Anything else you want to share?
I have a new project based in Europe. It is an all girls band from Portugal and it is called SHÍ is Dilana. I’m extremely excited about this project. We recently did two tours through Europe and almost every show was sold out. I am going back in October for 2, 5 months of touring with my girls. We will be performing in Iceland amongst other European countries. I am planning on a tour for us in the USA for 2016.
You can check out Dilana at http://www.talentwatch.net/artist/profile/dilana