Issue 10

PERCEPTION VS PERSPECTIVE

C O N T E N T S

EDITOR IN CHIEF ONKEMETSE G. LEKONE

The Editor talks about her journey and growing up being fixated by newspapers and magazines.

INTERVIEW DENNIS COLLINS

The cool, calm, and conscious founder of Space Spinach, a brand based in Cape Town talks about his journey

04 25

COVER FEATURE INTERVIEW AMARA FLEUR

The Johannesburg based singer & songwriter born in Mthath She is a music curator by day and makes music too

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O N K E M E T S E G O M O T S E G A N G L E K O N E

Let me tell you how it all started: I hail from Mahikeng, the capital city of the North West province I grew up fixated with newspapers and magazines, and as a result my creativity was shaped by these childhood memories and dreams Botaki Magazine was born in Mahikeng and later raised in the streets of Johannesburg. I set out to create my own platform which would push creative people beyond what is expected of them, and also give them a platform to express their creativity.

The magazine has had its greatest highs and currently, it is facing one of its more painful lows. We thought that our previous event, the launch party of Issue 10, would be a step closer to where we want to be as a company but we realized that there is still a long journey ahead We have lost important relationships during this low, and as a team we take accountability for that

The biggest learning point from this experience is that initiating change is an essential part of being an entrepreneur When you are innovating, success is not a straight line, and you will definitely encounter many unexpected turns and twists. You will have to be able to adapt. It is how you deal with uncertainty and the subsequent change that sets you apart.

The lows as well as the highs are part and parcel of being a young entrepreneur you cannot have one without the other, and when things are tough, I remind myself that I chose this life, and I need to persevere Support structures are everything; whether it is friends, family or creative circles, having someone to talk when you are in tears is so important I have found real comfort in my creative circle, they understand what I am going through, and have relevant advice to share Try to find people on the same journey as you, it will make a huge difference

See you soon

I’ve always been inspired by the youthful spirit..

Who would've thought that your fashion can have a full circle moment? Mindsets and concepts are shifted and improved as we sat down with self proclaimed 'futurist' Dineo Ramothwala, a designer who doesn't just make fashion, but creates to impact the male experience and identity.

Botaki

I n t r o d u c i n g D i n e o R a m o t h w a l a

Personally,

You describe yourself as a futurist in your IG bio. What does being a futurist mean to you?

Well… through my practice we could say I’m a post modernist but in broad perspective, I’m a futurist. I’m focused on how I can use the tools at my disposal to make life easier and better tomorrow, through design of course You recently launched your Excavations collection. What inspired this offering?

EXCAVATIONS was our first collaborative effort and it became a success, everything was carefully orchestrated and the reception has been wonderful thus far.

Fashion has to be slow right? It’s the only way we can preserve and sustain…it comes back full circle when we as designers design for low impact, longevity and recycle, we have to recycle. I cannot stress this enough. What has being the owner of a successful South African fashion taught you?

Hmm, successful? Well thank you but we ’ ve barely scratched the surface…my view of the world is completely different, I have so many ideas but need to mature, so you have to stay working on them continuously. My design narrative is egalitarian. If we could all apply design codes to our everyday lives we will have a better existence afterwards.

I feel as though people need to move away from being so dependent on current trends and start cultivating a personal style that survives fast fashion. What advice do you have for somebody trying to achieve this?

“Inmyworld,everything revolvesarounddesign, thecompanywekeep, thespacesImovein.All arounduseverythingis bydesign,it'sjusta matterofperceptionvs perspective’’

Interview by Dumezizweni Mabizela

TALIA RAMKILAWAN

Interview by Luvo Disane Photography by Megan Daniels

Talia Ramkilawan is a textile artist born in Cape Town. Her preferred medium of expression is the use of wool and cloth on hessian mesh. In 2015, she enrolled at the Michaelis School of Fine Art to major in sculpture. Her work looks at the everyday experience of a contemporary South African Indian woman, and one of her best highlights is the response she receives from other brown women in and out of the art world about their experiences in the art space and their interaction with her artworks. “That is the best feeling,” she says, “acknowledgement from my own community; that’s what keeps me going.” Her upcoming work includes a solo exhibition in October with What if the World, a contemporary art gallery located in Cape Town, and also a group show in Tokyo at the end of the year.

Acknowledgement from my own community; that’s what keeps me going

When did your journey in art begin?

While at art school I felt I was kind of sitting in the middle, and towards the end of my third year I realised it was because I wasn’t making art for me. I had created this idea of what an artist should be, I was a sculpture major and therefore I must make sculptural works. I worked in metals and wood even though it felt too harsh and I felt very disconnected from the work I was making. So in my fourth year I was looking for something I could do for me, something more intimate. And now that’s a feeling I can’t let go.

Why wool and cloth, and not paint?

Attempting to find a process of healing through making led me to where I am now. I craved intimacy between what I was making and myself. Weaving, working with wool and cloth is typically associated with women ’ s work and I found it so intriguing that I would be doing something internally so powerful and disruptive with regards to my healing just by sitting in my apartment playing with wool all day. Why I make the work is to think, to understand. I had to make things to fully comprehend them and the process of rug hooking has helped me achieve that.

What messages of activism, if any, do you share through your work?

My work looks at the everyday experiences as a contemporary South African Indian woman. The work is an extension of myself. They are vessels for dealing with all my traumas, anxieties old or new, as well as the good stuff, they are also a visual celebration of who I am. My work explores the intersections and binaries of my lived experience as a queer Indian women. Of all the artworks you have produced, which are the best three, and why?

My favourite changes depending on the mood. Because I try to capture moments and memories I share with others, it depends how reminiscent I feel towards those moments.

Right now my favourite is the first piece I made, which still hangs in my home, I’m feeling very grateful for where it has taken me.

Please describe your creative practice?

In between works I like to take a day off and really consider what I want to do next, at the same time it can be really mood dependent. Once I have decided, I will make a stop at the wool shop and get the colours I need, and often self indulge on ones I don’t... I stretch hessian over a wooden frame and nail it in place. I then use a black marker and draw out the image, when I first started I had a silly notion that the image underneath had to be perfect, but now I use white paint to correct anything I’m not happy with. When I am happy with the image I begin with the wool. I start with black wool pulling it through the hessian mesh using a small crochet needle following the lines I’ve made with the marker. When the outline is complete I start mapping out areas with colour. I chose colours based on what I like and what I think will work best together. With working from photographs I will try to follow the same colours. I finish the main image with wool before deciding on the background colour. On the last day of finishing off the wool sections I will go to the fabric shop and mull over what background colour will set the right mood. Depending on the size of the work, I will buy a couple meters of fabric and once home I will cut them into strips. The background is the hardest bit physically as I have to pull fabric through small holes in the hessian mesh, it typically takes me 2 3 days to complete the background. Finally I remove the nails I’ve used to stretch the hessian and I am done.

How was your experience of being an artist during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic?

I am a person who loves a schedule and ticking boxes on my many lists of todos, so lockdown really forced me slow things down and for the meaning of productivity to take a new form.

I now try first thing in the morning to do something I feel like doing, if that’s a cup of tea in bed or getting straight into working. I have learnt and am trying to take the pressure off myself and not feel so guilty about resting. The time alone forced a lot of internal work and everyday it is a dedication in being kinder to oneself.

How would you advise emerging artists on how to monetize their talents?

Social media has become an incredible platform for getting yourself and your work out there. You can access for many people across the world and I would say it is a great way to get attention to your work.

If you were not an artist, which career would you be pursuing?

I have a postgraduate in education and for a time before I became a full time artist I was a high school art teacher. Teaching is definitely still a passion of mine and something I would love to go back to.

What are the main challenges faced by queer artists?

The main challenges I face as a queer artist are that of any marginalised group. There is a lack of understanding and representation. But those that have the privilege like I do to have access to gallery spaces and space in general, need to do the most they can with it to make queer voices heard.

How do you ensure that you are always growing, and not becoming complacent because of your achievements?

To keep myself growing in my practice is to be self reflective, to talk to people around me; friends, family, the community I’ve created around me, they are my driving force. Whether it’s telling me how and where to move next or telling me to rest. We know our mind and body best and I am working on listening to that intuition more. And with that I will never be complacent. Surrounding myself with people who get me on so many levels has given my work and me an incredible assurance and confidence I couldn’t achieve alone.

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MDUDUZI & NKOSANA

Bonginkosi Mdu Mthethwa and Nkosana Mathonsi are a collective of Models and Photographers that are driven by learning strategic thinking informed by research and delivering meaningful value. They always strive to create an environment where each elevates the work of one another. Their goal is enhanced through the images they take and the brands they model for.

MODELING COME

How have you collaborated with photographers and creative directors in the past?

So we would make sure that we hang out with creatives in creative spaces wether it's at Neighborgood Market, Native Rebels, 44 Stanley to name a few. Those spaces helped us to network and by so doing we got to clinge good collaborations with photographers and other models.

Our modeling story is really interesting. We never wanted to become models but honestly modeling chose us instead. It was difficult for us to work with big brands because of paperwork from the Modeling side and since we have MyFriendNed on our side, we are liberated and can work confidently with brands.

HOW DID

ABOUT? WAS IT SOMETHING YOU GUYS ALWAYS WANTED? WHAT ARE THE CHALLENGES YOU HAVE FACED PRIOR TO BEING SIGNED BY THE AGENCY MY FRIEND NED?

By Onkemetse Lekone Photography by Justice Mukheli

Do you guys have limitations when it comes to photo shots or fashion shows?

We wouldn't call it limitations as such but nudity photo shoots doesn't define us. It is way above our personality but we are open to cool collaborations that are aligned to what we do.

What are your goals as models?

Let's change that " as models" part and categorize it as a business. We have a goal of having our own Agency where we can expand from Models to a Production house.

Tell us more about The Blackcode TBC

The Black Code is a collaborative effort of Nkosana and Mduduzi, a collective of individuals that capture pictures that reflects emotions and feelings, some bit of lifestyle and fashion.

How did you get good at photography? Haha we are not yet good but we'd say that taking pictures regularly helped us improve our imagery. Which photographers influenced you, and how did they influence your thinking, photographing, and career path? We were influenced by a lot of photographers, Jack McKain, Joshua Kissi & Iseeadifferentyoubrothers played a very huge role into shaping our visual literacy. What advice would you give to an amateur photographer wanting to change their passion into a full-time profession? Do they need fancy equipment?

With this one we would like to send the same message that we got from our brothers "You do not need to use expensive equipment to categorize yourself as the best photographer. Use what you have and create more. "

Opportunities find you at work. Most great people / artists are great because they are willing to do what others aren't willing to do. Put in the time and sacrifice in all forms. Success is not for a chosen few; it is for everyone; wait for your turn and put in the work in the meantime.

B A L I S E B O K E D I

Mbali Sebokedi is a popular “bookstagrammer” known as @flowahh . She was raised in Cape Town and is currently studying Literary Theory in the University of Pretoria. Her page is a vibrant combination of gorgeous “lewks” inspired by the books she has read and reviewed. She focuses on women and LGBTQIA+ writers of most genres and largely reviews African and Black literature.

"WHICH BOOK HAS CHANGED OR INFLUENCED YOU THE MOST?"

Every book has changed me in some way or another I don’t think I can quantify which book wins the “most impactful” prize. Maybe I should just say “all of them”.

How did the idea of combining makeup looks with books come about?

It was a fluke more than anything. It was lockdown and a bunch of challenges were happening. A friend of mine asked me to do the #booksasoutfits challenge but because my clothes are mostly black, I figured I could do the challenge with makeup instead.

Which book first inspired you to start creating/sharing content? What about it moved you?

No book really. I have been reading for a very long time, and I studied literature too, so I always had piles of books around me. At the time of the challenge, the decision was superficial, I figured a book with a pretty cover would work best.

INTERVIEW: MBALI SEBOKEDI

by Galaletsang Tabane

What is a quote from a book that has stuck with you forever?

I am probably beginning to sound like a fraud now, haha but a part of me wants to say there isn’t a quote because I am not a quote person? But I am giving this one to Nervous Conditions when I read the opening line “I was not sorry when my brother died” I knew immediately that I was in for a ride. It also happened to be my first novel written by an African woman writer.

Who is your all-time favourite author?

I don’t think I have one this is particularly because what I read in high school, varsity and now is totally different, I can’t imagine being obsessed with the same author for an extended period. I will say that the following authors fall under the “ can’t help but buy their books” group –Akwaeke Emezi, Jennifer Nansubuga Makumbi, Terry Ann Adams and Marlon James.

Which book and lewk combo is your favourite? Why?

Oooh this is a difficult one. I am awfully terrible at choosing favourites (mostly because I don’t think I have any). I will say that my 2022 favourite is the Olive #booksaslewks. I feel like I just look like a ray of sunshine. I feel like 2021 was filled with gorgeous looks so there is no way I could possibly choose. There’s the Mermaid Fillet one, The Kinky Roots one, La Bastarda and the one for Sankofa. How do you choose which book to read?

I am a mood reader so it really depends on my mood. On a rare occurrence my pick may depend on the kind of makeup look I want to achieve but that’s rare now since I have a back log of reviews.

Lol I don’t think I do. I do everything in spurts and do what I can when I can. If I don’t have time to do something, I simply don’t. But regarding reading time, I read in the train before and after work that’s about an hour of reading a day. If the book is really good then I will read it during lunch, or in the evening. I also listen to audiobooks when I am doing my chores.

If you were to write a book, what would be the inspiration behind it? Before I answer this, I would like to say that I have no aspirations of writing a book I never have. However, if my life was on the line, maybe I would do some academic writing, something to do about women writers in African literature.

Do you think that Western culture has negatively or positively influenced African literature?

I don’t think I can answer this or rather there isn’t a simple answer. The African literary (written, not oral) space is still “ young ” compared to Western literature and that’s because of colonisation. But I believe that from the very beginning our continent’s writers have been showing off and continue to show off (especially the women writers!). Not everything that comes from the continent is perfect, but I think we ’ re still at the stage where every book is important. Yes, there are writers that do not necessary write for the African audience and rather for a Western audience but there are just as many, maybe even more who write for us. I understand why we often refer to western influences, but I think we give them too much credit.

How do you balance life, content creation and reading?

Photography by Pierre van Vuuren

Dennis Collins is the cool, calm, and conscious founder of Space Spinach, a brand based in Cape Town. His pop up shop is a proprietor for playfulness and imagination inspired by the skateboarding community's artistic influences. Space Spinach's garments are constructed with careful attention to ensure maximum quality.

Dennis runs a tight ship, and believes that the brand's personal touches are its biggest asset.

Dennis Collins

Photographyby shootfilm cpt

WHATISONE IMPORTANTTHINGYOU THINKPEOPLESHOULD KNOWABOUTYOUR BRAND?

INTERVIEW

BY

NONJABULOMALINGA

Everything is made in a two bedroom apartment where myself and my partner live and share our lives together. Each garment is looked at and felt by our hands and almost always tried on by Lindsey. It’s still small and everything comes from a place of love and from making it the best that we can with the tools we have.

The first time I heard of Space Spinach, I thought it was a CBD infused vegetable store. How did you come up with such an interesting name? Hahaha! I’m sure the name could leave some with an itchy head, but it’s really just something that stuck! It was a playful term that I came up with to entertain my friends a euphemism. Space Spinach holds space for this playfulness and imagination, but just with a serious approach to garment construction and quality.

Sustainable casual clothing influenced by skate culture is a very niche market. What was the reason behind choosing this niche?

I didn’t go out and say: “Look, I’m going to try find a niche in the market!” I’m shaped by skateboarding and all the people involved in it, and how this community branches out into fashion, art, and music. The brand is very much just me and my personal taste, which is constantly being developed by what’s around me. I’m not even sure it is niche?

Dennis Collins

Now that you ' re officially the founder of a fashion brand, what do your day to day operations look like? Do they compare to a 9-5? My day to day is more like a day-in day out. I work all day most days, so I don’t think a nine to five can compare. What you put in, you get out. Most days I start at around 5 or 6am; make coffee for my partner and I; take our dog for a wee; wash the dishes if there are any; and then I head into studio after a shower and spend the rest of the day between there and my computer and run some errands in between. It’s pretty full on for me at the moment.

Do you remember the first time you sold a Space Spinach piece? What was the first thing that came to mind when you made that sale? I remember friends being very excited and the response was really amazing! I mean, so many of them helped me make the first graphic without even knowing, really. But it was the wildest thing when a complete stranger was asking for my clothes! That was a really warm make more feeling for me.

What is the most interesting you ' ve learned about the fashion industry since you ' ve launched your brand? I’m still learning every single day, but I think the most obvious thing I’ve come to realize is that anything is actually possible.

Starting a brand from scratch must have it's ups-and-downs. What are some of the challenges you ' ve had to overcome?

TAKING MAJOR RISKS! Turning your ideas into something physical and then offering this to the world is either a hit or a miss, but you have to take that risk. With great risk comes great reward. What do you want Space Spinach to accomplish in the next few years? Sheesh! In the next few years, I’d like to see obvious growth: employees, a permanent base in the city which is interactive and where I can build a world, skill-sharing with the youth, and really just seeing where it takes us! Right now, we are just naturally snowballing, which feels nice, comfy, and true to our integrity.

Where can people learn more about you and support your brand?

You can get in touch via Instagram (@spacespinach) or shop at local stores like @pot.plant.club or @baselineskateshop where you can expect to find some staples. When can we expect the next Space Spinach Collection to drop?

For the rest of the year, you can expect continuous drops of smaller batches, more 1/1 items, and one mega lookbook in the works!

COVER FEATURE: ZOLEKA MONTA

by Luvo Disane

Zoleka Monta is a fashion savvy Cultural Curator based in Johannesburg. She is the Founder and Managing Director of Monta Media House, a media company focused on bridging the gap between New Age media and Traditional media. She says the media space is not as easy as people make it out to be because it needs a lot of physical and mental strength. “It needs one to be super organised; it is a very fast industry but very relevant right now, ” she says.

Zoleka has aspirations of being a peacemaker for the United Nations, and has a strong desire to help end wars, and to protect children from being made soldiers at a young age. She also has the goals of building an art school and empowerment centres for the youth in disadvantaged communities.

Monta is also the Founder of Zoleka Monta Foundation, an organisation which was inspired by the various work she had done to advocate against discrimination of any sort. “I found myself being pulled towards children,” she says, “I wanted something that was true to my artistic interests, so I created a safe haven for children to advocate using artistic expression singing, painting, dancing, recycling, acting, presenting, DJing, designing and more. ”

“IT NEEDS ONE TO BE SUPER ORGANISED; IT IS A VERY FAST INDUSTRY BUT VERY RELEVANT RIGHT NOW”

As a fashion conscious person, how would you define the current fashion sense of the youth in South Africa?

I’d say it is more about the cool right now. Being able to rock any style but just as long as you can make it “COOL”. Old clothing is coming back with a bang but we need to stay cool. How do you choose which brands to associate with?

I’m very intentional with the brands I associate with. It needs to align with the impact and legacy I’m building. That’s how I choose which brands to associate with.

Evans Culture SA is one of the brands I manage and they specialise in Streetwear. My experience with them is that they are more of a community with their slogan being, “be a part of the culture.” The whole idea behind it is that everyone is a part of the culture whether young or old, black or white, whatever industry, or country you are a part of the culture. They have helped me express my creativity through the various work I do for them.

Please share your experiences with Evan Culture SA, and how it has helped your growth as a creative?

W h a t h a s b e e n y o u r f a v o u r i t e b r a n d c o l l a b o r a t i o n s o f a r ?

W h y ?

This is tricky, but I would say I really enjoyed collaborating with Strachan & Myburgh on the Brown Dash exhibition. As much as it was a taboo idea but it had never been done in the culture. No one had ever thought of curating an exhibition with the accolades of a legend. I was truly honoured to have curated this for the brand. It was like bringing a museum to the people plus I curated a timeless Kwaito piece.

What are your main career highlights?

I don’t really like separating my achievements because all of them mean something to me whether small or big, but I would say it’s definitely the Brown Dash exhibition, registering my company, contributing to the youth advocacy guide by UNICEF, being on Vogue while wearing my granny ’ s wedding dress (#Afropunk2019), and speaking at the UN agencies.

How is the journey of entrepreneurship with Monta Media House going?

I recently just fully tapped into Monta Media House by officially making the brands I’ve been working with as Zoleka Monta the clients at Monta Media PTY LTD. I cannot wait to do more work So many exciting ideas and work coming I’m also ready for the challenges that come with entrepreneurship but luckily I have my father, Dean Pozniak and Lindiwe Buthelezi (Co director of Monta Media House) to walk this journey with I know I will learn a lot of these individuals who are breaking boundaries in the business space.

Do

Yes I do. I overcome it by exercising, meditating and revisiting my old work which reminds me I’m capable and I’m deserving of these achievements because I work hard. Also journaling helps map out your state and what you need to overcome.

I learnt that it’s always important to be of service, to serve.

I learnt that you should lead by example.

I learnt that we should always express ourselves.

I learnt to put children first because they are the future.

It’s crazy, but I only applied at UJ and they took me. I chose film and television because I’ve always loved storytelling. I would always write dialogues of people in grade 5 – until one of my teachers confiscated the book and later told me I had a rare gift of storytelling. Furthermore, my high school teachers advised me that in whatever I do, I should make sure I do something in media.

The South Africa Heroes Awards are awards for all the amazing people in our communities that do glorious work to help our communities advance. My role was to get to know the nominees and the amazing work they do in our communities. South Africans are currently re-awakening to their cultural traditions. What is your take on Ancestors and the role they play in the lives of creatives? *smiles* I love to see it. Dust to dust, ashes to ashes. It’s a great time to be alive. I believe we are our ancestors wildest dreams what we are doing now is carrying the mission of our ancestors just in a modern way. Creatively there’s so much to explore and to discover within cultural traditions.

you ever suffer from imposter syndrome? If so, how do you overcome it?

What lessons of leadership did you learn while you worked with UNICEF?

Why did you choose to study film and television? And why did you choose the University of Johannesburg as your institution?

Please speak about your role as the ambassador of the South African Heroes Awards, and share the purpose served by the awards.

M E N T A L

U N W I N D ?

I EXERCISE, I MEDITATE, I PAINT OR CREATE ART, I GO FOR A WALK AT THE PARK, I VISIT MY FAMILY, I JOURNAL, I GO TO THE SPA, I SPEND TIME IN NATURE, I TALK TO A FRIEND, AND I CRY THEN GET BACK UP.

H E A L T H I S I M P O R T A N T . W H A T D O Y O U D O T O R E L A X A N D

I am a 24-year-old Master of Arts graduate and self-taught documentary photographer from Meadowlands Soweto. Ngiyisitsha esihlala kwi-room divider. I draw a lot of inspiration from the everyday lives of people in my community. I view my work as an ode to them and an archive that speaks for them.

career?

I honestly did not choose it, I still believe it found me. I initially wanted to study law and I feel like I would have never become the artist I am today if I continued with Law. My family is also a huge influence. The political debates they would have in our sitting room helped me see the world through a very socio political lens that I could articulate through the visual arts.

"I felt that black stories are missing in the fancy art galleries. So I decided to take pictures of people I would like to see existing in the art gallery space – both on the walls and in the physical spaces.

e your

I have always wanted to tell stories. I began my creative journey wanting to be a curator because I felt that black stories are missing in the fancy art galleries. So I decided to take pictures of people I would like to see existing in the art gallery space both on the walls and in the physical spaces.

Photography by Mashudu Tshikota.

by Onkemetse Lekone

Tell us how you discovered photography

I discovered photography through photo albums. I used to enjoy visiting relatives and friends just to go through their photo albums, its always been a way for me to get to know people. But I discovered photography again recently (2017) through taking a picture of a kota and that hyped me up so much because I thought it was the coolest picture ever taken, and I decided at that moment that I wanted to carry that feeling with me for the rest of my life.

As a photographer does spirituality and culture play a role in your creativity? Explain. Definitely. I may not be a very spiritual person at the moment but taking pictures of the subcultures I belong to has always made me connect with myself spiritually. I never know how to explain the feeling I get when I take pictures, but it definitely is beyond myself.

Can you talk a bit about the advantages and disadvantages — if there are any — of being a woman in this industry?

Unfortunately, there are always disadvantages of being a woman in a male dominated industry IN SOUTH AFRICA. You are just constantly undermined and you get people who say they want to work with you knowing they have underlying (sexual) intentions. The advantage is that when you are undermined, people never see you coming. So, you have enough room to create without feeling constantly watched or expected to be perfect.

Interview

Who are the photographers you admire?

There are so many brilliant photographers I admire. Lindokuhle Sobekwa, Santu Mofokeng, Lebogang Tlhako, Ntokozo Maseko, Lesego Konopi, Shaniqua Jarvis, Luyolo Fihla, Kgomotso Neto and so so so many more. Tell us about your experience working with Nike X Patta collaboration with Mamakashaka. It was one of the best experiences of my lifetime. I met so many amazing people and learned so much. More than I anything, I felt affirmed as a creative and gained a lot of confidence as an artist. It felt so refreshing to feel seen and like you belong.

"Nale South Africa enihlala kuyo eyase Soweto" is a powerful statement, tell us why do you think so?

I grew up seeing Soweto in a lot of commercials, magazines, history books, tv shows, and music videos, and knowing that so many Kwaito artists were from Soweto gave sowetans so much confidence. So, to us, who come from Soweto, it felt like South Africa wouldn’t be the way it is without Soweto and its rich history and as a creative hub.

When you captured , "The Minibus Taxi Industry, Public Health, and Passengers Pandemic Stories in Soweto" image what was going through your mind?

I wanted to tell the story of the passenger. Even the paper itself focuses on them. I wondered about the types of homes their going back to, that after so many long hours of working they are still here waiting more hours to go home, and just how generally the pandemic was on them. That picture really made me want to tell their story.

How much emphasis do you place on education? What do you think we should be getting out of this interview?

I mean, the reality is that education is not for everyone. Personally, I have just used it as a tool to understand my photography and just how I view the world. It has helped me a lot in terms of understanding the “why” of my creativity. I think take away the importance of knowing why you ’ re doing what you ’ re doing and use whatever tool and method that will help you get there.

What is your best advice for someone interested in your field?

You are not always going to know what you are doing or where you are going. So, picture this you are at the heart of Johannesburg CBD, you are lost, but always act like you know where you are going so that you are not caught slipping. Also, the road is very lonely and full of doubts, so make sure you don’t take that personally or wallow in it. Give yourself space to be silent and not do anything, the creativity or inspiration will always find a way back to you always.

A B O U T

Kgotlelelo B. Sekiti

Kgotlelelo B. Sekiti is from Alexandra township, north of Johannesburg. He is a self taught artist who became interested in photography and began to experiment with self portraiture as well as making short dance videos of himself using their smartphone.

What does a day in k.skits life look like?

I usually start my day by making my way to work around 8:30am and I take the day as it comes. The only thing that's consistent out of my routine is me getting to work and then what comes out of that is constantly unpredictable.

What was life like before you decided to dive into the world of the creative arts?

As far as I can remember, I’ve always been in the arts. I’m actually still in awe of how this is actually my journey. I started off dancing by the age of 8. I’ve been through the trajectory of being part of a drum band and then later on got the opportunity to get into formal dance training in high school. I would be lying if I narrated something outside of me being the arts because I think like most of us, memories of anything before the age of 8 are blurry.

Do you remember the first time you truly felt like an artist? What was going through your mind?

Around the age of 10, I got to perform at the 2010 Fifa world cup opening ceremony. Just feeling the energy of the people out there waiting for entertainment and an opportunity to feel something and me contributing to that was life changing and kind of made me realise that this is the kind of stuff I want to continue to do in my life.

Who are your most significant fashion and music influences? How do those influences guide your path as an artist?

This one is a tough one because I’m constantly evolving and exploring different parts of my self expression so this changes all the time and I would struggle to give a clear answer. I will say though that I love and appreciate all the stories currently being told by local designers that continue grow and shine in their craft.

CONVERSATION WITH K.SKITS

You posted a video on Instagram called 'Portrait of a Place' where you expressed gratitude for having a space where you can create art. What inspired you to film and upload that video?

I think in general, I miss out on documenting my artistic journey and I want to keep a record of that and also share with my community as I grow. The experience of having a studio is something that's new in my journey and I just wanted to honour that and express my gratitude for it.

These days, most creatives describe themselves as multi hyphenate or multi-disciplinary. Do you think it has a positive or negative impact on the culture?

I have never thought of that but I do advocate for people being able to explore their complexities and talents when afforded the opportunity. There’s a lot of room for creatives to get to do that and in my opinion, it’s always beautiful seeing people just go off! Like “Omg you can do that too?”

South Africa's creative community has grown from strength to strength since the pandemic's start. Now that you have freedom of movement again, what do you think the culture needs for it go global?

I think the culture has already gone global in so many aspects. The fashion industry is doing great, we have amazing artists that have pushed their work beyond borders.

People are figuring out mediums and just ways to share their stories that resonate and there’s so much to learn and expand on.

Gum Zandile Tshabalala Lunga Ntila (eternally)

Tony

If you had to choose your three favourite artists in the game right now, who would they be?

By Jacob Walker

I’m currently working on a show at the Standard Bank gallery which will be opening on the 17th of September till the 08th of October. I’m active on Instagram as I’ve found it to be a cool way to stay connected with my community My handle is @k.skits and on my bio there's a link tree with all the other platforms we can get to connect on either through music or just some visual art

The work of an artist adopts different shapes and sizes. What are you currently working on, and how can people connect with you?

Amara Fleur

Amara Fleur is a Johannesburg based singer & songwriter born in Mthatha and raised between Tanzania, India, New Zealand and South Africa. She is a music curator by day and makes music too.

Amara draws inspiration from her own life experiences, friends, the environment and a lot of the music she personally enjoy.

CONVO W/ AMARA FLEUR

Photography by Mashudu Tshikota

What was the role of music in the early years of your life?

Music defined a lot of my early life; I used to be stuck to my iPod most days, trawling Limewire or buying CDs. I personally discovered lots of things like Alternative Rock, Acid Jazz, Pop, Hip Hop and all the other weird and wonderful thing my friends were listening to.

Are you from a musical or artistic family?

Yes. Music and art in general connected me to my family. My eldest brother used to rap and produce, my eldest sister is an incredible writer, my late older sister used to dance (a lot), and our parents are incredible writers.

To pull that all together, Dad has incredible taste in music so I grew up listening to to everything from Jazz to R&B, to Afro Pop, Reggae and more.

How would you describe your music?

I don’t really have a description for it. But if I had to, I guess it’s R&B with tinges of other genres somewhere in between.

Did your style evolve since the beginning of your career?

Yes. I’ve been working with a lot more live elements and experimental sounds. Which skills have you gained that help you perform effectively as a musician?

I’ve gained an insane amount of insight in the music business and industry in and of itself. That’s helped me be more realistic about how I define having a “music career ” , and what I’m willing or not willing to to do. What distinguish you from other artist's in your genre?

I’ve not really thought about that, mostly because I don’t like to operate from a comparative space. You have collaborated with the likes of Xenlaii, ECHLN & Maramza, how was the experience and what were the challenges you faced?

Have worked with a lot more artists since then! I should update my bio ASAP, haha. It’s been a good experience, for the most part. These are artists I love. I’ve had one dud collab, and my most prominent challenge there was respect.

Tell us more about your EP, "And I Stopped Caring..." what was the creative process prior to the release of the EP?

ATISC was supposed to be longer, but I found three songs that came together quite well. The process quite long because I focused my energy on vocal training and putting together a visually charged project. I also made it a point to write about specific things I was going through, while pushing myself to be a bit risqué. What sort of lasting impression do you hope your music will have on other people?

I just hope people connect with the words and what I talk about. Most of these topics aren’t unique, and we all appreciate knowing that we share experiences with other people. What is the ultimate message behind the EP, "And I Stopped Caring..." ? Stop caring!

Can we expect any music from you before end of the year?

Yes! Not a lot, but yes.

If it was not music, what would it be?

I’m not sure! It’s always been music. Any words for your fans or people who'd like to pursue their career in music?

I honestly have no words beyond protecting your heart. Music is beautiful, but also very heartbreaking. Just know why you ’ re doing it, and be prepared to make a few uncomfortable decisions in order to make it work

A T L E H O M O N A U N E

Though still quite young, he has managed to foster a strong listening base within the often divided South African youth market He credits most of this success to his appreciation and commitment towards the unearthing of underground independent artists and oftentimes showcasing new discoveries in his DJ sets and playlists

Katleho Monaune, better known by his stage name Kaddy is a Johannesburg based, genre fluid DJ from Troyeville. 1/5 of Opposite People, a creative hub and events space that promotes diversity in people and explores what brings people together

How did the name Kaddylacradio come about?

It started with KADDY, which was a very random name that my friend used to call me and then Kaddylacradio came when i needed a name for my own radio show that was inspired by Soulection, now I'm forced to buy a Cadillac. How did you get involved with DJing, and when was this?

In 2012, in the Free State for holidays (june holidays). My aunt had left her PC while she went to varsity, and virtual dj was on the PC and that's when I started toying with it until I mastered it and the rest is history. What kind of music do you prefer to play? Which other genres did you experiment with before settling on your preferred genre?

I just want to play music, there’s no specific genre that I'm trying to settle with or play I just want to play music that I love hearing. What is the difference between DJing live and creating a mix for online distribution?

I don’t think there’s a lot of differences. You just won’t get the instant gratification when recording for online purposes, there’s less pressure, there’s more time and space to make mistakes and learn new things.

Who are your local and international musical influences?

International Soulection, UK music, US trap Locally Daev Martian, Buli, Kabasa, Bon Bon Vie, The Other Radio

Which music do you personally listen to? And when out and about, do you often get too critical when listening to other DJs playing their sets?

I listen to a lot of NTS radio, my spotify library on shuffle. I don’t get too critical, if I can’t stand the deejaying I’ll just leave, but if it’s not too bad I’ll just cringe for a few seconds. This is because I was once in their position via mixing or deejaying. What skills do you think DJs need to be successful?

Definitely reading the crowd, song selection and mixing.

What do you usually do to prepare for a set?

I can’t give out too much, but I usually listen to a lot of mixes and playlists to find gems in there or some inspiration. Then I do my research on the genre or music I’ve found and find more of it and compile a playlist. The real preparation happens when I enter the venue and start reading the room.

How do you stay up to date with the latest music trends?

Spotify, NTS Radio and Instagram always keep me updated on the latest. What is the most rewarding part of being a DJ?

Sharing music that you listen to in your room with a lot of people and they enjoy it. Describe your typical DJ performance in three words?

Opulent, experimental and soft. What do you consider to be the most impactful moments in your career? Going out to gigs, there’s too many to be super specific but just going to certain gigs, changed a lot for my career. What do you have planned, musically, for the future?

Can’t really say, because I'm working alone. What makes you different from other DJs?

Range is what makes me different.

Acknowledgement

Botaki would like to thank all the people we have featured for making this issue possible.

SPECIAL THANKS TO:

Dineo Ramothwala

Talia Ramkilawan

Bonginkosi Mthetwa

Nkosana Mathosi

Mbali Sebokedi

Dennis Collins Kgotlelelo Sekiti

Katlego Monaune

COVER FEATURE:

Amara Fleur

Dineo Mtetwa

Zoleka Monta

Botaki Magazine aims to instill in readers the need to bring forth their individual perspective in order to create a unique perception of the art the Magazine holds in it. For any enquiry(s), send us an email to botakiyouthmagazine@gmail.com