Pheli Awards to celebrate Tshwane talent with legendary artist Dr Esther Mahlangu

The inaugural Pheli Awards, a new initiative aimed at celebrating the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of Tshwane’s youth and local innovators, will take place on Saturday, 13 December at the Atteridgeville Community Hall.

The event promises to be a cultural highlight of the season, with the legendary South African artist Dr Esther Mahlangu confirmed as a special guest and Lifetime Achievement Award presenter.

Dr Mahlangu, 90, is internationally acclaimed for her bold, large-scale paintings inspired by traditional Ndebele patterns. Over decades, she has brought South African art to the global stage, collaborating with renowned institutions worldwide and inspiring generations of artists through her distinctive style and mentorship.

She has become a symbol of cultural pride and creative excellence, and organisers say her presence at the Pheli Awards will provide young creatives with an invaluable source of inspiration.

“We are thrilled to join forces with Dr Esther Mahlangu, a true legend whose bold, large-scale works have put South Africa on the global art map,” said Ofentse Sean Lewis, Director of the Pheli Awards. He added, “Her Ndebele-inspired canvases embody the very essence of creativity we aim to nurture in our youth of Tshwane.”

The Pheli Awards will recognise hard-working individuals aged 13 and above across 40 categories including music, visual arts, and entrepreneurship. The event will also present three Lifetime Achievement Awards to honour individuals whose work mirrors the daring spirit that defines Dr Mahlangu’s career. Winners will be selected through a transparent SMS voting system administered by Logic SMS, with results audited to ensure fairness.

“This year’s awards aim to spotlight emerging talent while paying tribute to those who have already blazed trails,” Lewis said. The awards will feature a gala dinner, performances by young artists, and local DJ sensation DJ Sub, with a dusted-pink theme and formal or traditional attire required for attendees.

Dr Mahlangu shared her excitement, saying, “My purpose in this country is to serve as a shining light that empowers, educates, and passes knowledge to upcoming generations of artists.”

Tickets are available at Computicket for R50, and the organisers are calling on businesses and community members to sponsor or donate towards the event to make it a lasting platform for Tshwane’s next generation of creators.