Tabiso Mbangi

Participant

Tabiso Mbangi is a photographer, fashion designer, and filmmaker from Mount Ayliff, Eastern Cape, Tabiso’s work comprises innovative ways of using photography and media as a tool to tell authentic stories about her community; while embodying the spirit of creativity, resilience, and continuous learning. Tabiso participated in the Women Empowerment Photography Project, which was conducted by the Department of Arts and Culture in the Eastern Cape and the Market Photo Workshop.

Cell No: +27 73 881 2129

Email address: tabisombangi@gmail.com

Crossing Borders, Facing Realities

Crossing Borders, Facing Realities explores the complexities of migration through the personal story of Ali Mohamed, a Congolese migrant living in Mthatha, South Africa. Ali’s journey from the Congo to South Africa was driven by the pursuit of hope and the search of better livelihood opportunities. Ali carried dreams of a brighter future, seeking to reshape his realities. However, his experiences have been marked by harsh realities that challenge the notion of South Africa as a land of promise. His path is laden with challenges

Crossing Borders, Facing Realities captures Ali’s story as a Barber in Mthatha. He shares the struggles of obstacles that feel nearly insurmountable — navigating a new environment, building a business from scratch, and confronting the daily challenges of xenophobia, economic hardship.

Ali’s narrative humanizes the migrant experience, revealing the emotional toll of leaving behind family, culture, and familiarity. His story also highlights the struggles, resilience and resourcefulness required to survive in a foreign land. By sharing Ali’s story, we gain insight into the lives of migrants who are often invisible in our communities. Their success is not guaranteed, and it may not be enough to reach the level of prosperity and integration that results in advancement and the opportunities it provides.

Crossing Borders, Facing Realities outlines the contradictions of South Africa – a land of opportunity and struggle, of hope and despair. This project invites viewers to reflect on the complexities of migration and the humanity that binds us all.

Profit in the Pit

Mthatha, a city with a rich cultural heritage, faces significant environmental challenges. Potholes, littered streets, and poor waste management have become a norm, affecting the livelihoods of street vendors and residents alike. However, amidst this chaos, a unique opportunity for survival and entrepreneurship has emerged. Profit in the Pit aims to highlight the complexities of Mthatha’s environment, where dirt and waste have become a source of income for some.

Profit in the Pit explores the work of individuals who collect and recycle waste from the city’s dumping sites – turning waste into a means of livelihood. The project captures Mr. Siyabonga Maqonga, Mr. Rozani, Miss Busiswa, Mr. Anda, and Mr. Siyabulela’s daily lived experiences and triumphs as they navigate the challenges of their profession. Profit in the Pit showcases their resilience and resourcefulness as they recycle paper, plastic, cans and glass for cash.

Through engagements with officials from Environmental Affairs and Mthatha Waste Management, the project sheds light on the city’s efforts to address environmental concerns. Profit in the Pit highlights that sustainable waste management practices and community involvement are crucial for protecting the environment, conserving resources, and promoting public health.

By drawing attention to practices like reducing waste, reusing materials, and recycling, all aimed at minimizing the negative impacts of waste on the planet, Profit in the Pit also tells the story of contrasts: between the stains and the dignity of those who work with it, between the challenges and opportunities that arise from environmental neglect, and between the efforts of individuals and the city’s initiatives.

The Streets

Mthatha’s streets, once alive, once proud and fair,

Now pockmarked, worn, and an eyesore.

The scent of kota and chicken dust once floated in the air

Now the story of the streets are potholes deep, like craters wide,

Once the streets of sunrise and promises, now dirty streets, where filth resides.

Sewage flows, a noxious tide,

A reminder that health and hope, compromised inside.

These streets raised us. These streets shall reclaim their pride.