Hip hop artist and illustrator creates a beautiful mural honouring legends of the music industry in inner city Johannesburg

By Edward Tsumele

Hip hop artist and illustrator Simamkele Mahambehlala has doneit again, and this time he has transformed a wall at Downtown Studios into a wonderful mural honouring the legends in the music industry such as Rebecca Malope, Hashi Elimhlophe, and Mercy Phakela. The mural was funded by National Arts Council.

I first came into contact with this young artit’s work at a beautiful mural in Yeoville in 2022, where he collaborated with young artist from the community to create awareness about substance and drug abuse.

Simamkele Mahambehlala is a multifaceted creative entrepreneur born and bred in Yeoville, Johannesburg. He has recently moved to Gqeberha, Eastern Cape.

Simamkele-aka-Sleeze is a gifted musician who has achieved chart-topping success on radio and television. He has had the privilege of collaborating with prominent artists in the industry, further solidifying his reputation as a talented and versatile artist.

When he moved to Gqeberha he was fortunate enough to get a part in “Gqeberha,

The Legacy” a very popular television Soapie not only in the Eastern Cape but country wide. Sleeze showed his remarkable talent as an aspiring actor.

This multi-talented artist is also a skilled illustrator and muralist, Simamkele brings vibrant creativity to various mediums. His artwork often addresses pressing social issues, promoting awareness and sparking meaningful conversations.

As the founder and CEO of Africhili Entertainment, Simamkele has expanded his creative scope to include events, marketing, and project management. Under his leadership, Africhili Entertainment has received funding from the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture to create impactful public art projects, including murals addressing pressing social issues such as substance abuse, mental health, and celebrating South African democracy.

Africhili Entertainment has also successfully collaborated with other small companies, fostering meaningful partnerships and delivering high-quality services.

The company remains committed to promoting artistic expression, social awareness, and community development.

Simamkeles’ commitment to empowering the youth and promoting social change has led to the successful hosting of a youth festival in Port Elizabeth. He continues to manage a roster of talented musicians in Gqeberha, providing guidance and support to help them achieve their goals.

With a passion for culinary arts, Simamkele has also made a mark in the food sector, collaborating with prominent companies to conceptualize and execute memorable events.

Through his diverse pursuits, Simamkele remains dedicated to promoting artistic expression, social awareness, and community development. His innovative spirit, creative vision, and entrepreneurial drive make him an inspiring role model for aspiring artists and entrepreneurs alike.

WHO ARE WE?

Africhili Entertainment is a vibrant and dynamic organization driven by young creatives passionate about harnessing the power of art to uplift and inspire communities across South Africa. Our mission is to foster youth employment, creativity, and social change through innovative projects that educate, inspire, and unite people from diverse backgrounds.

OUR WORK

We specialize in creating visually stunning and thought-provoking murals that celebrate South African culture, promote social awareness, and spark meaningful conversations. Some of our notable projects include: 2024 – Celebrating 30 Years of SA Freedom and Democracy: A vibrant mural at

Downtown Town Studios in Johannesburg honoring legendary South African musicians Rebecca Malope, Hashi Elimhlophe, and Mercy Phakela. The Mural was funded by National Arts Council.

2023 – Mental Health Awareness in the Arts Sector: A poignant mural funded by the National Arts Council, shedding light on the importance of mental wellness within the creative industry. The Mural was drawn in Maponeng during the Mental Health Month of October.

2021 – Kick the Habit, Stop Drugs and Alcohol"*: A powerful awareness campaign Mural in Yeoville highlighting the dangers of substance abuse by some artists. This project was funded by National Department of Sport, Arts and Culture through Mzansi Golden Economy.

OUR VISION

At Africhili Entertainment, we believe that creativity has the power to transform lives and communities. We are dedicated to providing opportunities for young creatives to grow, develop their skills, and make a positive impact on society. Through our work, we strive to:

– Foster youth employment and job creation in various parts of the country

– Promote social awareness and education through visual art

– Celebrate South African culture and heritage

– Empower young creatives to become change-makers in their communities

Join us on our mission to inspire, educate, and uplift South Africa's youth through the

transformative power of art.