Hi, I’m Bongiwe. My story began in a small town in Limpopo called Eerstegeluk, where I grew up surrounded by women who played a big role in my life. It’s a place where mining is the main focus, so art and design were never taken seriously, but for me, it became something personal.

Growing up, I was influenced a lot by the women around me, especially my mother. Her strength and stories she shared have stayed with me and continue to guide the way I think and create.

School wasn’t always easy for me. I experienced bullying, and there were times I felt isolated and afraid. But in those moments, I found comfort in my family, in the love and support of the women who held me together when I felt like giving up. Because of that my work is deeply connected to memory, family, and storytelling. 

I’m drawn to stories where women, especially mothers and female figures are strong, guiding forces who hold everything together. That’s something I carry with me in everything I create. As I got older, I moved to Johannesburg to pursue my art studies and take my creativity more seriously.