Cape Town – Zakes Bantwini has taken a major step beyond music with the official launch of the Zakes Bantwini Foundation, an initiative focused on empowering South African youth, women and creatives through access to education, mentorship and career opportunities.
The elegant launch event took place at The Saxon Hotel, where influential figures from entertainment, politics, business and sport gathered in support of the award-winning musician’s long-term vision for social change.
The foundation aims to create development pathways in areas such as arts, education, leadership, sports, music and culture, with a strong focus on helping young people build sustainable futures.
Among the high-profile guests in attendance were Gayton McKenzie, Panyaza Lesufi, media personality Tbo Touch, as well as members of South Africa’s creative and business sectors. Music collective Liquideep also joined the celebration.
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Speaking after the launch, Bantwini reflected on the significance of the moment and revealed that the foundation had been years in the making.
“Last night, I had the honour of officially launching the Zakes Bantwini Foundation at The Saxon Hotel, a moment that’s been years in the making,” he said.
“This foundation is deeply personal to me. It represents a long-standing commitment to creating access, mentorship, and real opportunities for the next generation, especially youth and women in South Africa.”
The Grammy-winning producer expressed gratitude to everyone who supported the launch, saying the turnout reinforced the importance of the work the foundation hopes to achieve.
“I want to sincerely thank everyone who came through to support. Seeing leaders and creatives from government, business, entertainment, sports and the arts come together meant more than I can put into words. Your presence wasn’t just appreciated, it strengthened the purpose behind this work,” he added.
Bantwini also thanked several individuals who played a role in bringing the event together, including his wife, Nandi Madida, who stood beside him during the milestone occasion.
He further acknowledged Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Minister Gayton McKenzie, businessman Dr Sizwe Nxasana, Saki Zamxaka, Tbo Touch and other leaders for supporting the initiative.
The foundation’s official Instagram page described the movement as one rooted in creating lasting impact and ensuring that talent is not limited by a lack of opportunity.
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“We are proud to officially launch the Zakes Bantwini Foundation.
Built to empower South African youth, women and creatives, this foundation exists to create access through education, mentorship, leadership development, sports, music and cultural growth.
This is about opening doors.
This is about sustainable careers.
This is about legacy.
Because talent should never be limited by opportunity.
Welcome to the movement,” the statement read.
The launch marks a new chapter for Bantwini, whose influence now stretches beyond the music industry into community upliftment and youth development, as he continues using his platform to inspire meaningful change.
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Picture: Instagram/ Zakes Batwini
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Compiled by Glaan Sibuyi
