Johannesburg, South Africa: In an evening defined by elegance, purpose and influence, Grammy Award-winning artist and social entrepreneur Zakes Bantwini officially launched the Zakes Bantwini Foundation at The Saxon Hotel on Friday night.
The black-tie affair brought together some of South Africa’s most influential leaders across government, business, entertainment and the creative industries in support of a foundation committed to empowering the country’s youth, women and aspiring creatives.
Among the distinguished guests in attendance were Minister of Sport, Arts & 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 Afrohouse star AzureDè, among many other notable figures.
The launch marked a significant milestone in Zakes’ vision to create meaningful and lasting opportunities for young South Africans through initiatives rooted in music, arts, education, sport and entrepreneurship. The foundation is designed to bridge the gap between talent and access, equipping young people with mentorship, industry knowledge, leadership development and career-building 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.
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The Zakes Bantwini 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.
The foundation board includes Saki Zamxaka, Thandeka Ndlovu and Sindi Metsing, who will help guide the organisation’s vision and long-term impact. The evening reflected the foundation’s spirit: a celebration of excellence, collaboration and cultural impact, uniting guests with a shared commitment to shaping a brighter future for South African youth and creatives.
The foundation also welcomes partnerships, sponsorships and collaborations that will help expand its reach and deepen its impact within communities across the country.
Zakes Bantwini also extended his gratitude to the board members, everyone who has supported the journey, and the team at Quintessentially for their contribution to bringing the launch evening to life.
