South African leaders, celebrities, and creatives gathered in Johannesburg as Zakes Bantwini launched a foundation aimed at creating opportunities for future generations.
By Bulelwa Hoala
South African Grammy Award-winning artist Zakes Bantwini officially launched the Zakes Bantwini Foundation at The Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg on Friday night, 15 May 2026.
The initiative is focused on empowering communities through art, education, sports, music, and cultural development. Built on the belief that talent should be nurtured and transformed into sustainable careers, the foundation aims to uplift women, youth, and aspiring creatives across South Africa by providing mentorship, skills development, industry guidance, and access to opportunities.
Speaking at the launch, Zakes Bantwini reflected on the importance of investing in future generations.
“This foundation is deeply personal to me because I understand what it means to dream big while lacking access and opportunity. We are building a platform that will empower young people to believe in their gifts, sharpen their skills, and create sustainable futures for themselves. South Africa has extraordinary talent, and it deserves to be nurtured, protected, and celebrated,” said Bantwini.
The black-tie affair was attended by some of South Africa’s most influential leaders from government, business, entertainment, and the creative industries.
Among the distinguished guests were Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Mr Gayton McKenzie, Gauteng Premier Mr Panyaza Lesufi, Dr Sizwe Nxasana, businessman and board member Saki Zamxaka, media personalities Lerato Kganyago and Tbo Touch, celebrated music duo Liquideep, Zakes’ wife, singer and entrepreneur Nandi Madida, and rising Afro-house star AzureDè, among many other notable figures.
See the pics below:
The foundation will roll out a series of impactful programmes, including the EmpowerHER Workshops focused on women in music, sports, and the arts; the Youth Talent Incubator under Mayonie Productions; The Business of Music Summit; the Creative Arts Festival; and Sports Leadership and Digital Media Training initiatives.
See more pics in the gallery below:
READ NEXT: Rachel Kolisi breaks silence on surname: ‘For now, I’m Rachel Kolisi’
The post GALLERY: Inside Zakes Bantwini’s star-studded foundation launch in Johannesburg appeared first on KAYA 959.
