Pamela Mtanga On Content Creation And Building A Lasting Brand

Pamela Mtanga / 26 / Multimedia Entrepreneur

Pamela in one sentence?

A multitalented girl from Port Elizabeth with an inevitably successful journey awaiting her.

               You label yourself a ‘Fashionable Multimedia Entrepreneur’, what does the title entail?

Stylishly infiltrating the stage, Television, social media and soon, radio.

What is your take on 2022 content creation in South Africa?

It is my favourite era! Landing up on a Television show that you used to watch when you were a child or seeing yourself on TV after creating social media videos warms my heart, especially seeing it happen for many creators. The unemployment rate is at an all-time high and I commend those who keep creating until they get a breakthrough, because seeking employment for long periods is heart wrenching. Over and above this, I am appreciating the amount of effort that creators are putting into their work. Content creation has been around long enough for us to actually start reinventing and finding new ways to market ourselves to our followers.

What does a typical day look like for you?

I would like to know myself! You wake up with plans to do nothing but exercise and run errands, then end up sleeping at 2AM due to a last minute client brief that needs to be out the next day, all this whilst packing to prepare to be in another city, so you sleep for an hour then tackle the next day, which could be filled with admin work and preparation for MCing at an event.

I am however taking a break from content creation for a bit so I can get back to having a strict routine like exercise, family time, coffee breaks and a balanced content schedule. I am also in the process of making structural changes to my team so I can have a helping hand to elevate the work off of my shoulders and deliver my best to client. 

Let’s talk Fashion, favourite designer/s? 

I am at a stage in my life where I am starting to take interest in designer items and anticipating what will bet first designer item. I recently wore a dress designed by Ryan Keys and that is easily the most expensive dress I have ever worn. The quality is immaculate and so was the service. I am a fan of MaXhosa as well. Internationally, Giuseppe Zanotti, Chanel and Carolina Herrera are sensational. 

What would you still like to add to your titles?

I would love to go back to radio, I believe the opportunity is yet to come.

Name a campaign you’ve absolutely loved working with to date?

It changes every month, I would say Adidas, Nedbank and Nivea have a special place in my heart. I am now working on a campaign with MiWay Blink which is completely different to what I normally create, yet I’m enjoying it. 

Behind the scenes, what do your followers not know about the process?

I think my followers are starting to get a glimpse of what happens in the background because I share as much as I can. My team and I create beautiful content pieces that come out perfectly but I try my best to share the “not-so-perfect” parts through my live videos or stories. This helps people understand the immense amount of work that goes into it, simultaneously helping other creators create realistic expectations for their work and less pressure.  

Create a lasting brand, what does that look like to you?

Creating a lasting brand speaks to a lot of things. Talent is the foundation but hard work, respect for your craft and clients, constantly reinventing yourself to adapt to changes within your industry and strategically placing your brand in relevant spaces keeps you versatile and relevant. 

Follow Pamela!

Instagram: @pamela_mtanga

Twitter: @pamela_mtanga

Facebook: @pamelamtnagasa

-Bridgette Makhela

Stoan Seate On The Future Of The Industry, Entrepreneurship And Staying Motivated

Serai Tshepo “Stoan” Seate / Entertainer / Busnessman / Entrepreneur

“Entertainer, businessman within the lifestyle entertainment industry. My job is to extract monetary and other types of values out of the brand Stoan and use the products I create as vehicles for it. My business is majority shareholder in the Stoan brand.”

Currently working on?

I’ve had to narrow down my focus down to a few things because even with a hundred lifetimes, I could never reach my full potential. To be excellent, I need to narrow down my focus. I’m continuing to record music but more as a hobby, compared to it being an occupation. I own a gin now, Native Gin. I also work with Magents Lifestyle Apparel in the brand marketing space, it’s a family thing. TV shows also do come but that’s not my main focus at the moment.

Artists are still in an unpredictable phase right now, how do you stay motivated?

I think it’s key to not no plan too far, compress my plan and execute within a period of about 2-4 weeks. You should be able to execute because things can change so quickly now due to the pandemic, daily and weekly goals are vital, you won’t be challenged when your 6-month plan fails. You can’t aim too far ahead but at the same time upping my skills. Graphics, videos, still images I’ve been doing myself. Staying busy…I’ve got 3/4 music videos done, 7/8 features done already and working on more. Stay working and stay positive about the future. Rather stay positive than negative about what the future holds.

You’ve come a long way as a talented all-round creative artist, what’s your winning formula?

It can be a gift and curse to be an all-rounder because you end up being a jack of all trades and a master of none. I’ve tried to keep the skills that can benefit other aspects in my life, such as my TV presenting skills benefitting my MC skills and vice versa. My SeTswana work in terms of my music benefits my presentation when it comes to doing other cultural activities. The key is finding a central point, if it’s something that’s outside, it takes away from my time and we only have 24 hours and 365 days in a year to do what we need to do.

Of all the projects you’re involved in, can you pick a favourite…and why?

There’s 2 projects right now that are working well together. Magents and Native Gin, I’m really enjoying the journey. These are spaces where my opinions and contributions are respected and valued, I’m learning a lot from people who have already invested years and have made the mistakes that I don’t need to make. I’m fast forwarding learning and standing on their shoulders as giants. I enjoy learning and gaining new skills.

Bongo Maffin is a huge part of your DNA, what has being in a band taught you?

Being in a band has taught me about compromise, you can never really have everything go 100% your way. You’ve got four headstrong people who feel that their approach is the right approach. If you understand that you all have the same intentions behind it all then you learn to be more empathetic and see things from another person’s perspective. I’ve learned about teamwork and rising to the highest level and pulling up everyone else to create a “5^th mind” that is stronger than all of us combined.

Describe music in your own terms…

Because of the last 100 years of the music industry, music has now become competition instead of it becoming or staying a mission. Music has become a competition, we are now counting whether an artist is impactful according to their numbers, and not according to how much soul, wisdom and value they impart to society, our souls and towards changing the world. That’s what music and arts as a wider discipline is supposed to be about, you’re supposed to teach, reach and inspire.

You’re an inspiration to many…but who inspires Stoan?

I’m inspired by God and the universe, the wonder that this whole design is. At a micro level, I’m inspired by the positive human beings around me, the ones who have tasted defeat and snatched victory at the jaws of defeat, people who didn’t have an easy way to victory, and people who fell and dusted themselves off to find new ways to get to where they are going. Like how a ship sets off with an orientation point but constantly has to reset its sail as the winds change. Another inspiration is my mother who was a young divorcee that made great sacrifices to raise me, as well as my grandmother too. Many other people too, Jay-Z’s story inspires me, South Africans here as well, the youngsters who continue to make things happen, guys like Cassper. People who have gone against the odds, Oskido is also a big one too, a lot of people can point out his contribution to their come-up. My environment, South Africa – our story and continuing struggle inspires me

A dream you’d still love to achieve?

One of my reasons for waking up, my “why”’ is I want all my four girls to have a life that is set up already by me. The first car, first property and so forth, should be provided by me. Most of my dreams centre around my family, giving them a better life and better opportunities to launch from a higher launchpad. All of us have a finite amount of fuel, so the difference between us are the opportunities we are afforded by our parents through sacrifice and hard work. I want to win, I want to be successful in all the projects I’m involved in, I want to make millions of rands and have another wave of success in life, as I’ve already had many waves of success. I’m still dreaming like I’m nineteen.

What do you think the future of the South African entertainment industry holds for upcoming talent?

The new South African industry is already here. It’s an industry for an artist who is more scientific in their approach, an artist who is paying keen attention to the rhythm, the urban flow and tides of their market development. The market development will be key where an industry of 100 people paying you R1000 is more valuable than 1000 people paying you R100. These are people that are more invested, a more hand-in-hand process when an artist is developing a product between himself and the fans, the fans have a buy-in before the product is out, because you’re already consulting them about different things. There will be a closer relationship between the consumer and the product developer who is the artist, it makes for more integrity in the industry, because there is no more bullshitting and no more gimmicks, it’s more about authenticity where then you have a higher equity. More gimmick type artists are going to fall by the way side and all that will be left is the real essence of what artistry, entertainment and expression is all about.

Follow Stoan!

Instagram: @stoanito

Twitter: @stoanito

Facebook: Stoanito seate

-Bridgette Makhela

Justice Mukheli On Film, Photography And Life In Between

Justice Mukheli / 34 / Filmmaker & Photographer

Not everyone can say they are a self-taught filmmaker and photographer, what sparked your interest?

I’ve always felt that I’ve wanted to be an artist, I felt this from a very young age. Both my parents were artists in their own way. My fondest memory is of my brother and I in primary school, when our father drew a picture of us holding a vinyl while we were listening to music. I grew up with drawings, paintings and sculptures around me. My mom would make jerseys with various patterns, even when it came to her baking skills, she way always creative. I’ve always known that I am artistically inclined. In school I was always interested in work that required drawing and creative solutions, I loved painting as well. On the other hand I was also into fixing cars and IT as well. I have Dyslexia and growing up with it was challenging and created trauma for me by the treatment I got from other kids around me. Therapy has now helped me a lot with getting over that trauma. There are still moments where it still kicks in, especially if I am nervous but the therapy has really helped and it’s gotten better.

What projects are you involved in at the moment?

I’m involved in a few projects at the moment. There’s a documentary that’s brewing, a little film for a cool brand (can’t say at the moment) and two amazing music videos I shot for a band called Urban Village with a label called No Format. There’s also an exhibition coming up, firstly online then in a gallery in Braamfontein, it won’t be new work but it’ll be put out in a different manner and package.

Inspiration and consistency keep the work going, who or what inspires you? 

I’m inspired by a lot of people and a lot of things. Music, politics and young individuals living their purpose. I am also inspired by our country and the advantages we have in our generation. The inspirational names that came before us didn’t have access to various opportunities like we do, that inspires me because our voices can be heard quicker and easier than our predecessors. I love people such as Toni Morrison and Chinua Achebe. Current people that inspire me are Vincent Moloi and Tebogo Mahlatse, I believe they have moved our country forward and I am grateful that I get to work with them. My mother inspires me too, so much. My culture, heritage and beautiful history inspire me, as well as Black Power. The increasing need of seeing and acknowledging women inspires me. Being a man, a lot of what I am is easier because of my gender, this inspires me to be mindful of my privilege and be better and create access for women in any way that I can.

The industry is full of talented individuals, how do you keep your work apart and noticeable from others?

I create my work for me. My intention and purpose in my work is different. A lot of photographers follow trends, most creatives try to do the same type of thing. My intention and the feeling in my work will never be the same as anyone’s. Every project I do is for me, how the person receives it is secondary to what’s important to me.

Fashion seems to be one of your interests, how do you put an outfit together for an occasion?

I really love fashion, it’s a way for me to express myself. Fashion is very therapeutic for me. I buy a lot of clothes and lately I’ve been trying to understand why I have an access of items so I gave away about 60% of my shoes. I grew up poor, I didn’t have much. My dad left when I was 15 and he was the breadwinner, my mother didn’t have a job so she had to find creative ways to make money such as selling cakes, Mashonzha, etc. There was no room for me to be fashionable while growing up so when I started making my own money, I started buying stuff for myself. It’s a beautiful thing for me. I mean imagine going from having one shoe to being able to have five pairs a year, but I need to be mindful of how it affects my pocket now.

You’re a twin…how has this shaped your storytelling? 

Being a twin is amazing, it taught me how to be around other people, if even though my brother is me, and I am him, I still have to be mindful of him and around him. He is my right hand, and I am his, you have to be considerate. Him and I have the same interests and competing with one another helps us to always strive to be better. When you’re a twin you are born with a best friend that you can always be yourself around. Even when you’re not seeing eye to eye, you still love one another. Being a twin also gave me separation anxiety, it was hard for me to be alone but you learn to deal with it. The connection we have is still strong even if we’re now in different businesses and are pursing different careers, I can also always feel if something is wrong with him so you always just check up on the other half.

Where can people follow you on social media?

Instagram: @justicemukheli

Twitter: @justice_mukheli

Tumblr: justicemukheli.tumblr.com

Website: justicemukheli.com

Facebook: Justice Rendani Mukheli

 

-Bridgette Makhela

Una Rams On His Story So Far, His First Ever Single And His Genre Of Music

Unarine Rambani / 22 / Sonic Artist, Software Engineer, Weird Kid

Tell your story so far…
I’m a kid from a small town called Makwarela in Venda, I’ve always felt that I was destined to be something great! I fell in love with music at a young age, learnt a couple of instruments through being involved in my parents’ church, that laid a foundation for how I understand and create music today. I went from being a Soundcloud kid to hearing my songs play on a couple of radio stations, to TV and now I’m the Venda Pop Star. There’s still so much I want to do, even outside the music, stay tuned!

Thank God for music because?
It literally saved my life, it’s allowed me to be free and express myself. I honestly don’t think I’d be as happy as I am if I didn’t have music. It was a healthy outlet in my varsity years, I believe it kept me sane.

You just recently celebrated your 22nd birthday, any major plans for the year ahead?
I’m releasing an important EP titled ‘Wavy Baby’ very soon. It’s one for the cuddles, head rubs, smiles and tears. I tell a love story without a happy ending because fairy tales are overrated. I have big plans for this project that will be an extension of the music, super excited to see everything come together.

South Africa needs to watch out for you mos def, do you love the attention?
It’s super cool, I used to shy away from it because I’ve always been about keeping to myself but I’m the type of person that wants to positively impact people and see them reach their potential and actually make efforts to chase their dreams. So I’m embracing the popularity (pronounced fame) and using the influence that comes with that to spread a message of positivity, peace and love.

Something not everybody knows, when did you release your first ever single?
Lol, that was way back in Grade 10, I produced the song myself, with a little help from my brother, Tondi Rams (check him out) and recorded over at a friend’s place. I got a thousand downloads on the day I released, which was a pretty big deal back then. I even got to perform the song at the Matric dance that year.

Do you own a journal? In other words, do you write your own material?
I’ve been trying to keep records of all the little thoughts that go through this wild brain. I wasn’t the type to reminisce much but I’m starting to appreciate looking back at who I was and seeing how much I’ve grown. We often get caught up in what’s wrong right now and we forget to be grateful for how far we’ve come, this sort of remedies this. I’ve written all my songs to date and I’m getting to the stage where I’m challenging myself to fully open up and really say how I’m feeling.

How would you describe your genre of music?
I call it human, it’s imperfect in it’s nature and it’s forever evolving. I might be doing this style today but I could easily come back with a new one tomorrow, I’m always trying to reinvent myself and my sound, Growth is key.

Nobody wants a lame squad. Do your friends support you?
My friends have been nothing but amazing. They won’t allow anyone they know to sleep on Una Rams, I’ve gotten voice notes from 6-year olds, videos from parents and even speeches inspired by myself from their friends and families. I really appreciate them, I just wish we could still hang out like the old times (we’ll find time).

Are you in this for the long run, or for the fame?
This is my life and for as long as I’m breathing, this is what I’m going to be doing. I love it with all my heart and God Himself keeps opening new doors for me…it’s not a journey that’s gonna end any time soon.

 

Follow Una Rams!

Instagram: @unarams

Twitter: @UnaRamsWeirdKid

Facebook: Una Rams

 

–Bridgette Makhela

Xavier Steeze On Being An Entertainer And Maintaining Stage Presence

Sibusiso Xavier Lawrence Thwala / 23 / Freelance Entertainer of everything in the name of Arts

 When did you fall in love with dance?

I’ve always loved dancing and entertaining.

What does being an entertainer mean to you?

It means everything to me, I feel alive when I am on stage. I also love watching choreography or stage direction I have created on big stage productions.

What other avenues are you involved in?

I have just started my own cinematography company called #X_FRAMES. I am also doing a bit of photography and videography for some artists. I work with BlackWorks Media too, I host events at different clubs and festivals and also do brand activations for various brands.

How much time does it take to choreograph a routine for a performance?

It all depends on the time the choreography is needed, but there are cases where you have to create choreography on the spot.

How do you select the perfect song for a routine?

Well, you pick a song that best brings out the creativity out of you, or a song you know will move people.

How many years have you been in the entertainment industry?

I have officially been part of the entertainment industry for ten years. My first paying gig was at the age of 13.

How many South African music videos have you been featured in so far?

I really have lost count…but I can proudly say that I have done music videos for most of the prominent artists in South Africa and North Africa.

The biggest highlight of your career so far?

I have three:

1. Black Motion performance at the MTV MAMA AWARDS performance, choreographed by me. –> https://youtu.be/B2fc1acRUAw

2. Placing top 3 HIP HOP INTERNATIONAL FOR DUO ALL STYLES with @LEASH_KES –> https://youtu.be/_Gh7QedPIsk

3. Riky Rick’s performance at the SAMA22, choreographed by @PHANTOM_STEEZE

 

Follow Xavier Steeze!

Instagram: @xavier_steeze

Twitter: @Xaviera_Steeze

Facebook: Sibusiso Thwala Xavier

 

–Bridgette Makhela

 

SubVerse On ‘O Vaya Le Mang’ Single, Upcoming Album And Motswako

Kgomotso Mokgatlhe aka SubVerse / Rapper

How did you find your way into the rap game?

Growing up in the ‘90s, it was almost impossible escaping the influence of Hip Hop culture. My brother kept a steady supply of TDKs and recorded music videos as well. That’s what really built the foundation of my love for the rap game. From then, the early South African Hip Hop scene is what convinced me that it could really be done and I started writing raps of my own.

O Vaya Le Mang…How has the single being received so far?

The track has received quite a lotta love and we don’t expect that to slow down now that the video is out (https://youtu.be/HG5vTXzyQ2A)!! I’m mad excited about the video release and making sure everybody sees it!

You’ll be releasing your second album since 2013, how much work was put into it?

The work is still happening and I’m actually in studio at the moment putting tracks down. I’ve got some special tracks lined up and the style and theme is different from anything I’ve put out before!

Do you have a favourite track on The Take Off album?

It’s way too early to pick a favourite. I can never single out one track but there are a few collaborations up my sleeve that I’m secretly going crazy over!

Tswellopele…How did the album mould your career?

More than anything, Tswellopele showed me the power of will and perseverance. That we (PGP Music) were able to put out such a solid project together, shoot videos, sells CDs, set up gigs and perform – to do all of that independently is an amazing feature. That will forever be a source of inspiration for me. Also, the response that we got was an indication to me that we’re doing something right. There were a lot of lessons that we learnt in the artistic and business sense…I could go on for a while!

What inspires your lyrics?

Experiences and observations. It could be something as simple as something I see or read, or a memory. There’s way too many sources of inspiration!

Motswako, what does it mean to you?

Motswako is the power of expressing yourself on your own terms! It’s powerful stuff if you think about the achievements that have been clocked in the name of Motswako. And I truly believe we ain’t seen nothing yet!

Maintaining consistency in the industry, how do you plan to do that?

I think maintaining consistency is purely a matter of trusting one’s talent and skill. There’s way too many trends and overnight buzzes to try keep up with. If you know what the end goal is, consistency shouldn’t be a fear-driven thing.

Food or FIFA?

I’m tempted to say FIFA…but this completely depends on the time of day, hahaha!

If you weren’t in the Hip-Hop game what would you be doing with your life?

I’d still be in the music scene in some other role. I’m way too passionate about music to imagine myself not involved in one way or another. That and sports.

Follow SubVerse!

Instagram: Subvwarusty

Twitter: @SubVwaRusty

Facebook: SubVerse

Soundcloud: SubVerse

YouTube: SubVerse

 

–Bridgette Makhela

 

Get To Know Khathu, DJ And Funny Guy

Khathu Litshani

27

Mix DJ / Comedian / Radio Producer / Record Label Owner / Music Producer  

Firstly, what’s Khathu all about?

Khathu is about happiness and spreading good vibes, a very easy going kinda guy who works hard and gives life his all.

You’re known all over social media for your ‘Abuti Nice Time’ funny videos, how did you start the movement?

My videos began when I was promoting an event I was hosting. I uploaded a video inviting people to come party with me…The manner and accent in which I made the video was what  got people talking, so from that first video people requested me to upload more videos, I gave in and from then on it has just been video after video and I’m loving it!

Your funny videos opened up some big doors, how did this come about?

My videos helped open up a lot of doors for me within the South African entertainment industry. I got deals from big companies wanting me to represent their brands, wanting to work with me and they also helped with growing my DJ career, as I started getting more bookings and traveling more. I started getting noticed by a lot of people and brands.

Being a DJ, what negative factors does the title come with?

Being a DJ isn’t easy, especially when it comes to relationships because there is a stigma attached to the career; which is that all DJs are players and cannot be trusted…which is not true. Besides that, there are not a lot of challenges, I enjoy my work!

How has your new single ‘Love Her Like She Ain’t Mine featuring Vugar M Beats and Kidd Nemo been received so far?

My single Love Her Like She Ain’t Mine has been received very well and is on a few charts and radio stations.  Although I have not full on executed the PR and Marketing plan for it, the love is amazing. Ladies love it, the gents jam to it so I’m happy…I’ll be shooting a video for it in the next few weeks, it’s the second single from my upcoming EP that will drop on the 14th of August, which is also my birthday.

Any more music that your fans can expect soon?

2016 sees DJ Khathu dropping an EP with about eight tracks. So more hits, more timeless music and out of this world music videos.

You’re always making people laugh, what makes Khathu laugh?

As much as people see me as the funny guy and always wonder what makes me laugh, it really is just people, people are so special. I also always look on the bright side of any situation that gets presented to me.

A burger or pap?

As a proud Venda man, I have to say pap!

What are some of the goals you are working towards achieving?

I have a lot of goals set out for the future, but some of my 2016 goals are to grow my business, invest in some property, release more music and never stop gigging!

Follow Khathu!

Instagram: @djkhathu

Twitter: Dj_khathu

Facebook: Dj khathu / Khathu DjKhathu Litshani (Dj-khathu) / Khathu DjKhathu Litshani II

 

–Bridgette Makhela