Top left: Vico Artistry members, Mr Konke Ngqambi, Ms Nomfundo Zwane and Mr Muzi Cele. Clockwise from top right: Muzi and Nomfundo present UKZN Chancellor, Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng, with his portrait in the presence of the UKZN Acting Vice-Chancellor and Principal, Professor Nana Poku.Artistic Trio Promotes Student Entrepreneurship
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Happiness is art for young entrepreneurs Mr Muzi Cele, Mr Konke Ngqambi and Ms Nomfundo Zwane who are within the College of Law and Management Studies and partners at Vico Artistry. A journey that started at a young age has turned into an opportunity to make money and change their lives for the better.
Cele, a third-year BCom Accounting student started the company in May 2018. It was at a very young age that he discovered his talent and passion for drawing. ‘It was only when I got to university that I realised my talent’s full potential and saw a market for my work,’ he said. Fuelled by the number of people interested in his work, Cele wanted to grow the project, which is where Ngqambi and Zwane come in.
Ngqambi, a second-year Bachelor of Administration student met Cele at an entrepreneurship exhibition and after a lengthy conversation, the two decided to join forces for better reach. He (Ngqambi) says he inherited his gift from his mother who has been his greatest support system.
Zwane, the marketing manager for the company, says she is excited to be part of the team and hopes to inspire more students to dream big and take risks.
The artists are pros when it comes to pencil, charcoal and pastel drawings. They were recently commissioned to produce a portrait of UKZN Chancellor, Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng, and travelled to Pietermaritzburg to deliver the painting during the UKZN PMB Graduation ceremonies.
The trio is hoping to do more in the art industry and to keep the company going after they graduate. They want to leave a legacy and provide those who come after them with the same opportunities.
Vico Artistry is currently looking for a fourth member with experience in finance to help update their books and are relying on the UKZN community to spread the word. For more information email vicoartistry@gmail.com. Follow their work on their Instagram account: @vico_artistry.
Words: Lungile Ngubelanga
Photographs: Khumbulani Myeni and Albert Hirasen