Sthelo’s mission is to empower others
Sthelo as a young boy always had a good eye for photography
He is young and creative with a strong desire to uplift local youth.
Photographer, videographer and entrepreneur Scelo Mpanza (29), aka Sthelo, is not only passionate about creating lasting memories through his various lenses, but is also committed to sharing his talents with others.
Born in the rural heart of Nkandla, but now settled in Empangeni, Sthelo as a young boy always had a good eye for photography and dreamt of making it big.
‘I used to research everything about the craft and the equipment – it was just fascinating,’ he said.
But after competing high school, life steered him in a different direction and he became a shop sales assistant to earn an income.
After saving enough money, he left Zululand for Durban where he enrolled for a film and photography course at the Creative College.
Returning home, Sthelo realised there were no job opportunities in the area, and he struggled to put food on the table until he decided to open his own business, Sthelo Media.
Among others, he uses it to empower aspiring photographers and videographers in the area. Not only does he give them training, but also employment as well.
‘There are no jobs for young people, especially in the movie industry.
‘Many end up wasting their time at home and resorting to bad habits such as drugs,’ he said.
His dream is to host regular workshops where he will use his experience to teach others.
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