IN CONVERSATION WITH SIBONGILE MNGOMA
Why Sibongile Mngoma matters?
Some leaders are defined by titles. Others are defined by how they treat people when no one is watching.This Tuesday Edition is an appreciation of Sibongile Mngoma not because of position alone, but because of character, courage, and consistency.
In an industry that remembers your past more than it recognises your potential.
In a dog-eat-dog sector that often celebrates downfall more than growth, this is a moment to pause and say: leadership that sees people fully still matters.
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Image Source: Sibongile Mngoma
Can you briefly share your professional journey and how you found your way into the Cultural and Creative Industries?
I was born into it.
Image Source: Sibongile Mngoma
What key moments or decisions have shaped your career path and growth within the sector?
Career path was shaped by other people's opinion of what they called "my talent".
Growth was shaped by a reality I didn't expect and therefore didn't bargain for.
Image Source: Sibongile Mngoma
How has your education, training, or lived experience prepared you for the work you do today?
It hasn't. Education is good but it doesn't prepare you for the reality of a harsh environment. Training has been the best thing for me. Lived experience has been very humbling.
Image Source: Sibongile Mngoma
What challenges have you encountered in your journey, and how have they influenced your approach to your craft or practice?
I started working when my race was still a huge disadvantage. Even with the opportunities given, they were given begrudgingly. A lot of the time there was a need to cut me down to size and remind me that I'm nothing. It helped me to grow a thick skin and a backbone and nerves of steel.
Image Source: Sibongile Mngoma
In your view, how has the Cultural and Creative Industries landscape in South Africa evolved over the years?
Has it evolved?
Image Source: Sibongile Mngoma
What gaps or opportunities do you believe still exist within the sector, particularly for emerging practitioners?
What gaps? What opportunities? Gatekeepers are too busy shutting down every potential opportunity.
Image Source: Sibongile Mngoma
How important is institutional support, policy, and funding in sustaining creative work in South Africa?
It is all important but before it can happen, there's a need for a visionary.
Image Source: Sibongile Mngoma
What role do you think arts journalism and media platforms play in shaping public understanding of the creative sector?
These days? I don't know if they still even have a place. Gatekeepers have kicked them out.
Image Source: Sibongile Mngoma
What advice would you give to young or emerging practitioners navigating the industry today?
Be your own boss, if you have the brain capacity to do that. If not, look for another job.
Image Source: Sibongile Mngoma
Looking ahead, what is your vision for the future of the Cultural and Creative Industries in South Africa?
Start afresh.
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