Zinzulu Creates: Where young voices rise through Art, Dance, and Expression
Kelebogile Matlou
Lusanda Selo is the founding director of Zinzulu Creates in Kagiso, Krugersdorp, a non-profit company dedicated to empowering children through the transformative power of the arts. Her journey is rooted in a deep belief that knowledge is power, and when applied, it has the potential to create meaningful change, especially within local communities.
Lusanda’s background in education and child development has significantly influenced her arts education philosophy. “Studying and understanding children became a stepping stone for me to make a difference in my community through the arts,” said Lusanda. At Zinzulu Creates, the goal is to provide children with tools of self-expression, be it through visual arts, music, dance, poetry, or theatre, to voice their thoughts and tackle social issues affecting them daily.
The organization works with children between the ages of 7 and 17, providing a safe, creative, and nurturing space. “We do not just teach art. We ask children what they think about the world around them and how they can respond to it using their creativity,” Lusanda says. From exploring cultural identity to addressing community challenges, children are encouraged to speak up, express joy, raise awareness, and heal through play and performance.
One of Lusanda’s proudest moments was when Zinzulu Creates first opened its doors. The overwhelming response from children and teenagers in the community was a powerful reminder of the need for such spaces. “It showed how children have always longed for opportunities to express themselves beyond the school environment,” she said.
Another highlight came when the children attended a professional theatre production performed by fellow young artists. “They were mesmerized,It was beautiful to watch them experience theatre not just as spectators but as future performers, said Lusanda.
The organization’s first end-of-year showcase was another emotional milestone. Parents, caregivers, and community members gathered to witness their children perform everything they had learned from drumming and singing to acting and poetry. “Seeing our students on stage, confident and proud, and their parents cheering them on it was magical,” Lusanda says.
These successes have been made possible through strong partnerships and community engagement. Lusanda’s years of freelancing in theatre and networking helped her build a foundation of collaborators and stakeholders. “From fellow artists to social workers and counsellors, we have built a community that believes in what we do,” she says. Social media and word-of-mouth have also played a critical role in growing Zinzulu Creates and keeping parents informed through platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, and TikTok.
Looking ahead, Lusanda envisions an even greater impact. Long-term goals for Zinzulu Creates include accommodating at least 100 children per year, operating six days a week, and offering comprehensive after-school programs. Plans are underway to secure their own studio space in Kagiso, complete with equipment, staff, and dedicated classrooms. Lusanda also dreams of sending children to international children’s theatre festivals and exchange programs where they can perform while learning abroad.
“We want to become one of the most influential creative hubs for children in South Africa. We envision a legacy where our students grow into facilitators themselves passing on their skills and empowering others,” she siad.
The dream is big, but it is already in motion. Zinzulu Creates continues to thrive with a focus on sustainability, access, and community empowerment.
To stay up to date with their work, follow Zinzulu Creates on:
Facebook: Zinzulu Creates
TikTok: @zinzulucreates0
Website: www.zinzulucreates.co.za (Coming soon)
