Master’s Student

Renaissance man Nkosikhona Ngcobo (32) is a consummate artist who combines writing, photography, filmmaking and contemporary art as well as academia into his hugely busy lifestyle.

But, he says, he’s happiest when he’s doing community work. “I’ve been fortunate enough to pursue my passion for creating and art, and I’d like to see more people empowered to do the same in whatever excites them, using technology.

“I often find myself in rural communities and I pull out my Mac, hook up to the internet and show kids what’s possible in the wider world. Youngsters face so many challenges and education resources are scarce for many of them,” says Ngcobo.

He graduated in fine arts from the Vaal University of Technology in Kempton Park. A string of exhibitions and design awards followed, but the accolade he’s most proud of was when he was named a peace ambassador by former first lady Zanele Mbeki at the 2008 Southern African Development Community Women and Peace Dialogue for his film Praying for Peace.

In 2011 he was commended by President Jacob Zuma for a logo design he submitted for the ANC’s centenary celebrations.

Right now Ngcobo has his head down studying for a master’s degree in visual arts through Unisa.

“We need to do good things for less fortunate people rather than worry about irrelevant issues,” he says. “I’d like to see more people with the wherewithal organising community upliftment events instead of complaining.”
— Greg Gordon

Website: www.nkosikhona.co.za