Africa-Press – Eswatini. Dressed in his signature dust coat and armed with paint-stained hands, Mfanmpela Zwane transforms his fine arts classroom into a vibrant studio where Eswatini’s future Picassos are born.
A proud son of Mafutseni in the Manzini Region, Zwane is on a mission to raise a new generation of creative thinkers through art, fashion, poetry, and purpose.
“My vision is to produce students who are skilled to face the world,” Zwane told us, in between animated chalkboard sketches and acrylic splashes. “Vocational training is the future, not just theory.”
With an associate degree in Fine Arts from Limkokwing University and a Diploma in Education from CiT College, Zwane blends talent and training in his quest to become Eswatini’s most impactful art teacher.
He also holds certificates in business and community development, proving his artistry extends beyond the canvas.
Before entering the classroom, Zwane sharpened his skills working with fashion houses and collaborating with creatives like jazz maestro John Philip, Khulekani Msweli, the late South African rapper HHP, and comedian Gedlembane Shongwe, with whom he once filmed a comedy skit during his student days.
But his proudest project yet? “The Art Festival Against Abuse”, which he founded in November 2023. “We partnered with UNESWA, SWAGAA, the police, and others to use art to fight abuse,” Zwane explained. “Art has the power to heal and educate.”
Zwane has showcased his work at renowned events like MTN Bushfire, Swaziland International Trade Fair, Fashion Week, and even the Zimbabwe Arts Festival. His accolades also include recognition as an award-winning events manager, a title he wears with humble pride.
Currently, he teaches fine arts at Grace School while running expressive arts workshops for teachers across the country. His commitment to education is practical, literally.
“You won’t find me in a tie and blazer. I wear a dust coat so I can demonstrate and do the work alongside my students. It’s about showing, not just telling,” he said.
Zwane’s classroom is alive with energy, filled with learners who aren’t just memorizing art history but creating their own.
“I love my work. It helps me change lives daily and contribute to the economic development of our communities. These skills allow me to earn meaningfully without complaining about low salaries,” he added.
A call to the Ministry of Education may be in order, this is the kind of teacher transforming the future one brushstroke at a time.
“Teachers must equip themselves throughout their careers, learn, connect, and stay relevant,” Zwane urged.
“Because when we evolve, our students do too.”
For More News And Analysis About Eswatini Follow Africa-Press
