In the heart of Soweto, Gauteng, a young boy once picked up a pencil at the age of three and never put it down. That boy, Sibusiso Ntokozo Mkwanazi, now 25, has grown into a passionate visual artist whose work is deeply rooted in both creativity and community.

Sibusiso’s artistic journey began as a natural calling. “Art has always been my passion,” he reflects.

“It’s something I’ve carried with me since I was a child.”

His raw talent was later refined at the Funda Centre, where he spent a year honing his skills and exploring new techniques.

But for Sibusiso, art is more than self-expression — it’s a tool for upliftment.

Currently, he works closely with local crèches, bringing colour, creativity, and inspiration into early childhood spaces. One of his latest projects is completing a vibrant mural for his aunt’s crèche, transforming the learning environment into a place where imagination thrives.

“I want to meet other artists so we can uplift each other,” he says, embodying the spirit of collaboration that fuels his vision.

From humble beginnings in , Soweto, Sibusiso’s work now stands as a testament to the power of nurturing talent and giving back to the community.

His dream is to connect with fellow creatives, share knowledge, and inspire the next generation to see art not just as a hobby, but as a life-changing force.

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Meet Createpreneur Africa, South Africa’s Brush of Inspiration for the Next Generation

1. Tell us what drives you? What is your true passion in life?
What drives me is the ability to bring imagination to life through art. My true passion is creating visuals that inspire, teach, and uplift — especially for children in my community. Art is my language, my way of connecting with people’s hearts.

2. How did you find your passion and how old were you?
I discovered my passion when I was just three years old. I would spend hours drawing, and it felt natural — like breathing. Over time, I realised this wasn’t just a hobby, it was my calling.

3. What about your passion appeals to you the most?
The most beautiful thing about art is its power to transform spaces and emotions. I love how a blank wall can become a story, and how colours can spark joy in a child’s eyes.

4. What drove you to make money from your passions?
I wanted to live a life where my work is also my joy. Turning my passion into a profession allows me to sustain myself while making a positive impact in my community.

5. When was the first time you were paid for your passion?
The first time I was paid was for a small commissioned piece in my neighbourhood. It wasn’t much, but it was proof that my talent had value and could open doors.

6. What kept you going when you thought about giving up?
The children I work with keep me going. Seeing their excitement when they see my art reminds me why I started. I also think about the younger version of myself who dreamed of this life — I can’t let him down.

7. What motivates you every day to be even more successful?
Knowing that my work can inspire others, especially young artists, motivates me. I want to show them that it’s possible to follow your passion and make a living from it.

8. What do you have to say to all of the people who doubted you?
Thank you — your doubt became my fuel. Every “you can’t” pushed me to prove that I can.

9. What advice do you give to aspiring creatives who look up to you?
Start now, with whatever you have. Don’t wait for perfect conditions. Keep learning, keep creating, and surround yourself with people who believe in your vision.