Grammy Award-winning artist Zakes Bantwini has officially launched the Zakes Bantwini Foundation, a non-profit organisation dedicated to empowering young South Africans through music, arts, education, sport and entrepreneurship.

The launch took place on Friday evening at The Saxon Hotel in Johannesburg. The black-tie event brought together prominent figures from government, business and the entertainment industry, including Minister of Sport, Arts and Culture Gayton McKenzie, Gauteng Premier Panyaza Lesufi, Dr. Sizwe Nxasana, media personalities Lerato Kganyago and Tbo Touch, music duo Liquideep, Afrohouse artist AzureDè, and Bantwini’s wife, singer and entrepreneur Nandi Madida.

Speaking at the launch, Bantwini said the foundation is rooted in his own experience of growing up with big dreams but limited access to opportunity.

“We are building a platform that will empower young people to believe in their gifts, sharpen their skills and create sustainable futures for themselves. South Africa has extraordinary talent and it deserves to be nurtured, protected and celebrated,” he said.

The foundation plans to roll out several programmes, including the EmpowerHER Workshops for women in music, sport and the arts, a Youth Talent Incubator under Bantwini’s production company Mayonie Productions, The Business of Music Summit, a Creative Arts Festival, and training in sports leadership and digital media.

The foundation’s board includes Saki Zamxaka, Thandeka Ndlovu and Sindi Metsing. It is also open to partnerships and sponsorships from organisations that want to support its work in communities across the country.