Their experience, insights, and connections not only guide the mentees in honing their skills but also in navigating the complexities of the art world. Through their guidance, the next generation of artists gains the confidence, knowledge, and opportunities to shine brightly in their respective fields.
Dance
Onkarabetse Motsepe was born and raised in Phokeng and started his dancing career in 2018 after receiving professional training from Happy Feet Ballet and the South African Body Of Dance. He specialises in Classical Ballet, HipHop, Amapiano and Afro Dance.
Theatre
Edward Makgale is a Theatre Master with a passion and love for the Arts. He graduated at "Artema" at the North West University Potchefstroom Campus. He has vast experience in working and training youth in general including in Arts and Sports. He has worked as a Stage Actor Trained by legends such as, The Late Mr Selaelo Maredi, Jerry Tsie and Genious Letsholo.
Fine Arts
Tshepang Maelangwe was born in Phokeng and went to Tlhabane Technical and Commercial High School. He started his art career at Tshwane North College, working alongside the likes of Vusi Zwane and Thami Maswai from Rockers Drift and the late Mr Motlhabane Mashiangoako. He achieved the position of finalist in two national art competitions, namely, the PPC Young Concrete Award (2009), and the Sasol New Signature (2012). His experience includes working at the Pretoria Art Museum as an Education assistant and tour guide, and exhibiting at various platforms in Johannesburg, Tshwane and Potchefstroom galleries and museums. Internationally, he has participated in show in Turkey is due to be part of an upcoming show in Hong Kong.
Theatre
Veronica Mogoebi is a multi-talented individual, balancing the roles of a devoted mother of two and a supportive partner to Tsholofelo Ernest Mogoebi, an accomplished actor. She wears many hats, serving as a teacher, and art educator. Despite her busy schedule, Veronica is pursuing her education at Unisa, striving for personal and professional growth. Known as a Ground Breaker, she fearlessly ventures into new territories, leaving her mark wherever she goes. As a facilitator, Veronica empowers others to reach their full potential, and in her role as a receptionist, she greets visitors each day with warmth and efficiency. Beyond her professional endeavours, Veronica is also a talented poet, weaving words together to inspire and uplift those around her. Her journey is a testament to her resilience, passion, and unwavering dedication to making a difference in the lives of others.
Poetry
Fine Arts
Kamogelo Molokoane is a fine artist and tattooist whose love for art started as early as primary school.
Music
Dineo Katane otherwise popularly known as Dee Afriq is from the village called Phokeng, She pursued her music career joining after Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation in Mahikeng where she developed her skills as a performing artist. She released an album called Mosadi wa Mo-Afrika which is available for download from digital platforms. She has travelled to as far as Jordan in Asia, attended the National Arts Festival in Grahamstown and shared stages with artists such as Zonke, Ringo, Zahara, Somizi and Jordanian Artists. And participated in local events as an artist or MC.
Theatre
Andrew Rapoo is a distinguished filmmaker and theatre practitioner from Rustenburg, and a proud son of the Bafokeng Nation. With a career marked by significant achievements, Andrew has staged and performed plays at the prestigious South African State Theatre, the largest theatre in Africa. He has also produced and written movies that stream online, showcased at Ster-Kinekor, and aired on Mzansi Magic. His work reflects a deep commitment to storytelling and cultural expression, making him a prominent figure in the South African arts scene.
Theatre
Lizzy Ranta is a performing artist. She studied drama at Mmabana Tlhabane and later studied arts management at the North West University, Potchefstroom Campus. University. Lizzy is a scriptwriter and a storyteller who has performed for several years at the Grahamstown National Arts Festival and featured in the Bafokeng short film and stage play. Her highlight was being featured in a comedy show - Comedy Cabin produced by Desmond Dube.
Music
Boitumelo Magano is a Rustenburg-born singer, songwriter, MC and Radio presenter known for her amazing voice and magical performances on stage.
Fine Arts
Paul Mbuqa is a self-taught artist with a passion for creativity and dedication. He obtained skills in charcoal drawing, acrylic and watercolour painting, and mosaic art through workshops offered by Bokgone Arts and Culture. He exhibited his work for the first time at the RBI Arts Festival in 2023. He aims to inspire and guide young artists, nurturing creativity, self-expression and a love for visual arts.
Dance
Goitseona Modise is a young, dynamic, energetic and engaging dance professional and performer. He is well-versed in a variety of dance forms and techniques such as Amapiano, Ten-step, contemporary and hip-hop dance styles. Through working as a mentor for the RBI Arts Festival, he is passionate about teaching dance while implementing dance strategies and creating a passion for the art form.
Theatre
Stanley Letebele is a graduate of Mmabana Arts, Culture and Sports Foundation, having performed in more than 12 stage productions and passed through the hands of many respected directors among them: Selaelo Maredi, Ian von Memerty, Walter Chakela, Danny Jasson and the late Pogiso Mogwera. Letebele is a well-rounded performer, a former drama tutor at Bafokeng Youth Centre, artistic director of Legae Arts Institution and was part of Motsweding FM’s Radio show ‘Takalani Sesame’ as ‘Moshe’. Stanley has won awards for acting, story-telling, poetry and public speaking. He directed Bojanala Schools Setworks and produced two films, namely, Neighbouring and ‘Ntate Modiri’s Nightmare’. He also wrote and directed plays such as ‘Bana Ke Bokamoso’, ‘Beyond Childlessness’ and “Malalapipe” among others and they all performed at Grahamstown National Arts Festival.