Passionate businessman gives back to local artists

A talented businessman from Wedela is using his strengths to help up-and-coming artists in the community to market themselves. “I believe the more you give, the more you receive,” says the 34-year-old Lamek Makotore, putting his life philosophy into a few simple words. He is passionate about helping those who cannot do it on their own and has found a calling among many young people in Merafong whose capital challenges threaten their dreams.
Lamek originates from Zimbabwe and established himself as a businessman in his home country. He used to work with aspiring Zimbabwean artists, among whom was well-known Tongai Moyo. Moyo and others recommended his
work and encouraged him to move to South Africa. In 2013, he decided to pack up and do so and started Makotore Studios from nothing. He began the events management, decor, video and photo shooting business on the streets of Wedela, where he marketed his skills and offered his services to local churches in the area, free of charge. Before long, he began working with The Ultimate Visioneers, a local drama group from Wedela. He assisted the group to shoot and print a DVD which they are currently selling. He then moved his business to Carletonville, where he is currently based, and has since assisted a number of other local artists like the gospel singer, Andiswa Mbata; poet, Zimbini Njiva; hip-hop group, Street Kings; Makhosi Productions and hip-hop artist, Vibration Taylor. He says he is excited about the talent he has discovered in SA. One of the proudest entries on his CV is having changed the lives of drug addicts by turning them into up-andcoming artists who are now pursuing their careers.“It’s very important for local business people to acknowledge and encourage the talent of young people because it reduces poverty and gives them a sense of purpose,” he explains. His main message to young people is that, whether or not they are educated,
they can take their talents, add a lot of hard work and patience and pursue the (show)business they love. Lamek encourages parents to support their children and their talents and not decide on their career paths on their behalf.