joburg youth arts organization inspires activism in under-resourced communities

Umuzi.org is a youth development organization working with young people in under-resourced communities “to create socially informative multimedia, which inspires engaged citizenry, youth activism, and change.”

Through workshops, apprenticeship programs and art exhibitions, Umuzi turns artivism from a global necessity into a reality.

As part of this work, the organization’s Umuzi Academy offers a paid one-year learnership that “produces high-calibre, entry-level designers, copywriters, digital, and multimedia professionals.” Graduates not only receive a National Certificate in Advertising, they also get experience working at a top creative agency, where over 80% of the graduates go on to start their careers.

For funding, Umuzi provides professional photography services which also function to provide practical opportunities for its youth photographers.

On October 5th in Johannesburg, South Africa, the organization is partnering with AFROPUNK for the Ringa! exhibition, exploring the relationships between the visual and oral of language in the South African region. Find out more information here, and check out some of the stunning artwork made possible by the organization below!

Fede sizo vuka nathi by Tshepiso Mabula

Fede sizo vuka nathi by Tshepiso Mabula

Ako-ben (Uphondo lwempi War horn) by Basetsana Maluleka and Motheo Mamabolo

Fede sizo vuka nathi by Tshepiso Mabula

uSesh om’nyama by Verona Banda

Ngi Yak’Verstana by Zebulon Chuenyane

Body Language by Tshireletso Moloi, Thabang Modupo, Nande Nyosi, Kgothatso Malatjie, Thando Sithole

Maak Gou by Kgodisho Mowa

Kashiro by Thabang Tlhako

Kao ‘ Ncanywa by Aqilah Sulaiman and Basetsana Maluleka

Imizamo yaMaNgesi yokujola umhlaba ngokuqhatha uNongqawuse by Sinalo Ngcaba

Hola Heita by Mpho Mokoena

Hola by Neo Mahlangu