Tribute to local music legend
The KwaZulu-Natal Sports, Arts, and Culture MEC Mntomuhle Khawula also attended the tribute.
A Christmas tribute to musical legend Mandla Shozi was organised by the Cultural and Creative Industries Federation of South Africa (CCIFSA) in Ugu recently.
The tribute was aimed at honouring Shozi’s contributions to the arts, which has resonated in the hearts of many.
Prominent figures such as Pat Lushaba, Themba Ncama, Armstrong Cele, Abathembu, and other local artists who collectively recognised Shozi’s role in shaping the music landscape attended the event.
The KwaZulu-Natal Sports, Arts, and Culture MEC Mntomuhle Khawula also attended.
Khawula said such events emphasised the significance of fostering a culture of remembrance and appreciation for those who have left an indelible mark on the arts.
At the event, KZN secretary of the Cultural and Creative Sector, Howard Msomi, said supporting the families of legends during the festive season was important.
“A special thanks to Mthembeni Mbili, the performance sector secretary of CCIFSA in Ugu, for conceptualising the tribute. It was an idea that found a nurturing home under the custodianship of the Margate Art Museum and under the visionary leadership of Siya Sotsu. The museum has become a beacon for local artists, fostering an environment where creative talents can flourish and thrive,” he said.
He added that the tribute highlighted the importance of art administration as championed by the South Coast Art Business Incubator NPC.
He said the initiative has brought to the forefront the need for economic development within the arts sector by upskilling artists and preparing them for sustainable careers.
“The incubator plays a crucial role in elevating the artistic landscape of the region. The gathering served as a reminder that the arts are not merely a form of expression but are integral to the economic and cultural fabric of society. As attendees shared stories and memories of Shozi, it became clear that his impact inspired a community and motivated emerging artists to pursue their dreams,” he said.
Msomi said the handover of Christmas gifts to the Shozi family was a gesture of kindness and a symbol of solidarity that reflected a broader message of support for the arts during the festive season.
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