Nandi Madida and Zakes Bantwini’s son Shaka causes international art waves as he exhibits in The Netherlands
At just nine years old, the budding South African artist continues to make his mark, exhibiting his work at the international exhibition Connecting the World Through Art in Alkmaar, the Netherlands.
By CityLife Arts Writer
Young South African artist ShakaMadida is taking another exciting step in his creative journey, with his artwork featured in Connecting the World Through Art, an international exhibition bringing together artists, students and communities from different cultural backgrounds in Alkmaar, the Netherlands.
Taking place at the historic Kapelkerk, the exhibition celebrates the power of art to connect people across borders, generations and perspectives. For Shaka, whose passion for art has already earned him recognition in South Africa, this international showcase represents an exciting opportunity to share his creativity with a wider audience.
Shaka first captured public attention in November 2025 when he celebrated his ninth birthday with his first solo art exhibition at Magugu House in Johannesburg. Rather than a traditional birthday party, the young creative chose to mark the occasion by showcasing his artwork, achieving a personal milestone and making his first art sale on the same evening. His parents, media personality Nandi Madida and Grammy Award-winning musician and producer ZakesBantwini, have supported his growing passion for artistic expression.
Now, his participation in an international exhibition signals another meaningful chapter in his journey, placing his work within a broader conversation about creativity, cultural exchange and the importance of nurturing young talent.
Connecting the World Through Art brings together international and local artists in a shared creative space, inviting visitors to experience art beyond the traditional gallery setting. The programme includes opportunities to meet participating artists, take part in a live printmaking workshop led by artist and designer Isi de Jongh and enjoy live music and DJ performances.
The exhibition is organised by students from HogeschoolInholland Alkmaar in partnership with art marketing agency Novus Arte, alongside HochschuleMittweida in Germany and the Universidad de Zaragoza School of Arts in Spain.
For Shaka, being part of this international platform is an opportunity to contribute to a creative environment where different artistic voices and perspectives are celebrated. His participation also highlights how young people can begin exploring their place in the global creative industry from an early age.
Shaka’s journey is a reminder that talent does not have to wait for adulthood to be recognised. Young people have ideas, perspectives and stories worth sharing, and opportunities to exhibit their work can help build the confidence to continue developing their craft.
His progression from a first solo exhibition in Johannesburg to participating in an international showcase in the Netherlands offers an encouraging example for aspiring young artists in South Africa and beyond.
Beyond the milestone itself, his story speaks to the importance of creating opportunities for young people to explore their interests, express themselves and connect with audiences beyond their immediate communities. Art provides a platform for imagination, individuality and cultural exchange, allowing young creatives to contribute to conversations that extend far beyond their years.
As Shaka continues to explore his artistic potential, his international exhibition marks an exciting moment in a journey that is still unfolding.
Exhibition details
Exhibition: Connecting the World Through Art
Dates: Thursday, 29 October 2026 | 18:00–22:00
Friday, 30 October 2026 | 17:00–21:00
Saturday, 31 October 2026 | 12:00–16:00
Venue: Kapelkerk, Laat 80, entrance via Kapelsteeg 3, 1811 ER Alkmaar, The Netherlands.
Entry: Free
Connecting the World Through Art invites visitors to experience the power of artistic expression, discover new perspectives and celebrate the creative voices shaping the future