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Gopolang Ledwaba, a passionate documentary photographer and photojournalist, is making a significant impact in the community of Bram Fisher, Soweto, through his brainchild, the Mandebele Photo Gallery.
Founded in 2018, this community gallery has evolved into a cultural hub, offering more than just a space to showcase artwork.
Mandebele Photo Gallery serves as a museum and collaborative space for the Bram Fisher community. Beyond preserving and showcasing local artwork, it facilitates collaboration among artists and provides photography lessons for those eager to learn.
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Ledwaba's vision extends to creating a photographic library and an art gallery that contribute to shaping a unique narrative for the community.
Ledwaba uses the gallery as a studio and a coffee café to generate income to sustain the space.
Overcoming initial scepticism, Mandebele Photo Gallery has become a pivotal resource for Bram Fisher.
Ledwaba said:
The gallery has also become a place for nurturing the next generation of photographers, with Ledwaba teaching six children photography on Saturdays.
However, the gallery faces challenges, primarily the shortage of equipment.
Ledwaba said: "We still need photographic books and cameras and a few studio equipment to grow the space and to teach the learners in a proper way."
Despite these challenges, the gallery remains committed to its mission of community empowerment through photography.
Ledwaba is currently participating in an incubator programme, further honing his skills and expanding the gallery's reach
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Mandebele Photo Gallery is set to officially launch on 23 March 2024, in collaboration with the esteemed Market Photo Workshop. This partnership aims to amplify the gallery's impact, bringing Ledwaba's vision to a broader audience and ensuring sustained growth.
Gopolang Ledwaba's journey with the Mandebele Photo Gallery shows how art can truly transform local communities. Through his photos and words, Ledwaba not only captures the stories of Bram Fisher but also encourages collaboration, mentorship, and empowerment. As the gallery prepares for its official launch, it's set to continue making a big impact on people's lives, echoing Ledwaba's belief that "documenting our own history is crucial".
