This follows the dramatic rise of Mlangeni to stardom, after catching the eye of the world when he posted a picture he had created of renowned DJ Black Coffee on his social media accounts, and it went viral.
His work was spotted by Nestlé, which manufactures Ricoffy, and everything changed for the lanky youngster, who at the age of seven was raised by his grandmother in Sasolburg, as an orphanage.
He had skills, but no money to make his art dreams come true but as luck would have it, his dream has been realized following an opening of a mobile Shack art studio in his own area, in partnership with Nestlé.
He’s affectionately known as “Coffee-Bae” and has won art competitions and been featured on TV as his portraits of famous South Africans have made him an online sensation – particularly his Winnie Madikizela-Mandela artwork.
“I want to sincerely thank Nestlé for believing in my dream. This is a
dream coming true. Growing up in Sasolburg had its fair share of
socio-economic challenges but these did not deter me from pursuing my art
talent. When I could not afford to study art, I taught myself in my shack.”
“This is a community art studio, as such, I want to utilise my skills to
produce more and better Ennocks from our community. I further encourage
different role-players around Sasolburg to support us because through art, we
can contribute to our township’s social and economic growth,” says Mlangeni.
The Shack Art Studios will house “Coffee-Bae” and would allow future artists, especially young kids, to use it to better themselves, amongst others.
Nicole Roos, Business Executive Officer: Beverages at Nestlé South Africa
said the company’s decision on any stakeholder collaboration is informed by
sustainability and creating shared-value with communities.
“As Nestlé, we continuously and strategically partner with various stakeholders and individuals who share our objectives on community development.
Ennock’s journey of utilising his talent to impact his community, perfectly
resonates with our purpose. Through our NESCAFÉ RICOFFY brand, we decided
to support his vision by funding an art studio that will also benefit the
Sasolburg community and surrounding areas.”
“Ennock is an immensely talented artist who uses his talent to economically
uplift his community. His mission of training other young art enthusiasts
as well as helping them hone their business management skills, shows a young
man who possesses a long-term vision,” added Roos.
Image (‘Coffee Bae’ Ennock Mlangeni inside his new Shack Art Studios in Sasolburg. FS).
