Tsakani – Nokufika Maseko’s passion for photography began long before she picked up a camera. It started in 2014 during her university days when her mom gifted her a film camera, sparking a lifelong love for capturing moments.

In 2017, while interning at the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture, and Recreation, Nokufika invested her stipend in a camera and began photographing sports events and portraits for free, eager to build her skills and experience.

Her dedication paid off, and in 2020, during a period of unemployment, she launched her photography business.

“With funding support from the NYDA, I acquired professional equipment, enabling me to take my craft to the next level.

“I have been actively growing my business since. In June, I completed my NQF Level 5 qualification in Film and Television Production, further expanding my creative expertise,” explained Maseko.

She added that her love for storytelling inspired her to start her business, saying she does that through her lens. She helps people create and keep memories that were almost lost.

“I always had a strong desire to be my own boss and to run a professional production house. I love capturing candid moments such as events, weddings, and families,” she said.

She recently launched her NPO, SheCaptures, to empower young women through photography and videography. She started it because of the gaps she noticed in the photography industry, as it is male-dominated.

“A lot of women often approach me asking, ‘How do you do it?’ I believe women can do jobs that society thinks are only for men.

“It is essential for women working in male-dominated fields like photography and videography to support and uplift other women,” she added.

“I believe in the power of women‘s empowerment and the importance of creating opportunities for each other to succeed.”

Maseko hosted a workshop under her NPO to empower others to venture into her field and plans to host more workshops to expose individuals to opportunities in the industry. She described her first workshop as a success. She received support from the School of Broadcast (NEMISA).

“There was a positive response from the participants.

Her proudest moment since the start of her NPO was when she received funding from the National Youth Development Agency (NYDA) and Small Enterprise Development Agency (SEDFA). She plans to build a studio or production house for her photography business, where she will have a team working to produce work for clients, such as commercial adverts and short films.

“For my NPO, I plan to get sponsorship or funding to buy equipment that will be used to train students. I am also looking to host or collaborate with a local photographer in teaching ladies about lightning in photography,” mentioned Maseko.

For sponsorship and enquiries, contact Mahlangu on 078 186 2818.

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