Grammy Award-winning artist and producer Zakes Bantwini is stepping further into impact work with the launch of the Zakes Bantwini Foundation, an initiative focused on empowering communities through art, education, sport, music and cultural development.
The foundation is aimed at uplifting women, young people and aspiring creatives across South Africa by offering mentorship, practical skills development, industry guidance and access to real opportunities.
Speaking about the vision behind it, Bantwini said South Africa’s talent is not in question, the challenge is access.
“South Africa is filled with extraordinary talent. The foundation was created to help bridge the gap between passion and opportunity by equipping young people with the tools, knowledge and support needed to thrive in the creative and sports industries,” he said.
Taking to social media after the official launch at The Saxon Hotel, he described the moment as deeply personal and long in the making.
He said the foundation reflects years of commitment to creating pathways for young people, especially youth and women, while thanking everyone who supported the launch event.
“It’s been years in the making. This foundation is deeply personal to me,” he wrote. “It represents a longstanding commitment to creating access, mentorship, and real opportunities.”
He also acknowledged the strong turnout from across sectors, including government, business, entertainment, sport and the arts, saying their presence strengthened the purpose behind the initiative.
Among those present were Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi and Minister of Sports, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie, alongside well-known figures such as Tbo Touch and Liquideep among many others.
Bantwini extended special thanks to his close collaborators, including his executive assistant, board members, friends and partners such as Quintessentially, for helping bring the launch to life.
The foundation will roll out a series of programmes aimed at practical empowerment, including EmpowerHER Workshops for women in music, sports and the arts, a Youth Talent Incubator under Mayonie Productions, The Business of Music Summit, a Creative Arts Festival, and a Sports Leadership Academy alongside digital media training.
Each programme is designed to give participants not only exposure, but the tools to build sustainable careers in competitive industries.
Ultimately, the foundation says its goal is to help shape a new generation of South African innovators, artists, athletes and entrepreneurs.
Bantwini added that the work has only just begun, with the foundation also opening itself up to sponsorships, partnerships and donations to expand its reach.