Ntsiki Mazwai stands as a compelling figure in South Africa’s artistic and cultural landscape, a beadworker, poet, musician, and activist whose influence transcends boundaries. Her work is a seamless blend of creativity and consciousness, rooted in a deep love for African traditions and an unflinching commitment to justice and equality. Through her many artistic ventures, Mazwai offers not just entertainment but also critical reflection, embodying a rare fusion of ancestral wisdom and modern-day relevance.
Born and raised in Soweto, Mazwai’s journey into beadwork may seem surprising for someone with an urban upbringing. Yet, for her, it was a vital connection to her ancestors and a means of grounding herself amidst the challenges of modern life. She describes beadwork as a practice that goes beyond craft: “Beadwork centred me and connected me to my ancient past,” she explains. The act of crafting beads became an avenue for rediscovering African identity, honouring heritage, and maintaining a spiritual connection with her roots.
Speaking to The Southern African Times, Ntsiki mentioned that her artistic sensibilities were heavily influenced by her upbringing in a politically charged household. Her parents, journalists and activists affiliated with the Pan Africanist Congress, instilled in her a sense of responsibility towards the liberation struggle and black consciousness. She likens her family to America’s Black Panthers, proudly recounting their role in shaping her militant approach to activism and her unwavering focus on African empowerment.
This cultural and political awareness shines through in all her creative endeavours. Her poetry and music are a call to arms for the marginalised, particularly black women. Mazwai is deeply frustrated by the societal structures that continue to undermine women’s contributions, even in spaces where they are natural leaders. She rejects the notion of competing with men, advocating instead for a recognition of the complementary strengths each gender brings to the table. “Women are leaders, but it doesn’t get acknowledged,” she says.
Mazwai is also passionate about challenging distorted perceptions of African culture, particularly the misconception that it has always been patriarchal. “African societies have historically been matriarchal,” she argues, urging a return to the principles of equity that once defined these communities. Her work consistently aims to deconstruct such misunderstandings, shedding light on Africa’s rich and diverse cultural history.
In the music industry, Mazwai carved out a unique niche by fusing poetry with house music. This bold innovation brought a new dimension to the genre, infusing dancefloors with thought-provoking messages about social change. “We could still have fun and be dancing, but we had to be thinking about how to make things better for us,” she explains. However, her journey in the industry has not been without struggles. Operating as an independent artist, she faced exploitation and found herself navigating an industry riddled with inequality.
Mazwai’s entrepreneurial spirit has been a key driver of her success. Drawing inspiration from her father’s business acumen and her own marketing studies, she launched a beadwork brand and a media company, determined to establish a legacy that extends beyond her individual achievements. While the entrepreneurial path has been challenging—grappling with cash flow issues, hiring decisions, and business growth—Mazwai views these struggles as integral to her growth. “The entrepreneurial journey has been hardcore,” she admits, but she values the discipline and resilience it has instilled in her.
Now in her forties, Mazwai is focused on building a sustainable legacy. She aims to package her work in a way that ensures its longevity, allowing future generations to benefit from her contributions. “I want to package my brand in a way that ensures I’m not living hand-to-mouth and that my work sustains generations after me,” she reflects.
Mazwai’s boldness extends beyond her art and business ventures. She is known for igniting national debates with her outspoken views, often courting controversy but always staying true to her principles. While she acknowledges the challenges of being a public figure, she has learned to embrace her platform as a means of amplifying voices beyond her own. “When I was younger, I centred myself too much. Now, I realise my voice is a platform for others,” she says.
Ultimately, Mazwai’s work is about empowerment—of herself, of women, of African culture, and of all those who dare to question societal norms. Her story is one of resilience, creativity, and an unwavering commitment to justice. Whether through a delicate bead, a carefully crafted verse, or a revolutionary idea, Ntsiki Mazwai continues to challenge, inspire, and transform. Her legacy is not just her own but belongs to a generation that dreams of a fairer and more inclusive world.
