The 20-year-old Nhlangano-based photographer speaks on spirituality, art and using the lens to confront pain and identity in Eswatini.
A young photographer from Nhlangano is turning deeply personal experiences into visual stories that speak to spirituality, African identity and social realities affecting the Kingdom. Okuhle Mamba, a 20-year-old visual artist from the Shiselweni Region, is steadily building a presence through photography that blends vintage aesthetics, spiritual expression and raw emotion.
In an interview with Independent News Eswatini, conducted by Digital Editor Adekunle Owolabi, Mamba reflected on her upbringing, her spiritual awakening and the moments that shaped her creative journey. Her work, created and shared largely from within Eswatini, has resonated with young people navigating identity, faith and self expression in a society where such conversations are often muted.
Below, Mamba shares her story in her own words.
About Okuhle Mamba
“My name is Okuhle Mamba, I’m a 20 year old with a deep passion for art, spirituality and photography. I’ve always been a free spirited person who speaks my mind and sees the world a bit differently. I’d describe myself as an old soul, I grew up drawn to old school music, fashion, and the stories they carry. I’m a bit of an introvert, I enjoy being around people I love, but also treasure peace and my own space. I am an artist, I create what I feel and it’s how I express who I am.”
“I grew up in a small town called Nhlangano, living with my single mother and my older sister. Growing up in a place like this has taught me to stand up for myself and live my truth. It’s what shaped my earthy personality, my free spirit, how my mind works, and the way I express myself through art and photography.”
Spiritual calling
“I discovered my calling around the year 2021 when I was doing Form 3. That phase forced me to spend a lot of time alone and really isolate, and in that isolation I learned how to control my mind and understand the difference between reality and the spiritual world. The awakening wasn’t easy, but it opened my eyes in many powerful ways, and since then, I’ve started seeing everything from a deeper perspective, how the universe works and what we call religion.”
“My creative side and my spiritual journey are deeply connected. Art is what helps me feel closest to my guides and my higher self. I create what my soul needs in that moment, so for me, art and spirituality are one.”
Photography journey
“I discovered my love for art around the same time I began to understand my calling. I was in a very dark place, feeling lost and empty. I needed to feel something inside, so I started taking pictures of anything, no matter how stupid it looked, as long as it brought me peace inside. And that’s when I fell in love with photography.”
“What inspired me the most was the high rate of GBV and rape cases. I felt a deep need to give a voice to the emotions and pain that so many victims carry in silence. I wanted to capture those emotions through my art, the pain and fear.”
“I remember seeing a post on social media about a woman being abused by her partner, and it really shattered me. I felt like I needed to do something, I needed to step up. I wrote ‘Say No to GBV’ in bold letters across my forehead, took a couple of photos, and posted them online. A few people shared the post, and some messaged me to thank me for speaking up and being their voice. That moment showed me the kind of power my art had.”
Creative style and inspiration
“I would describe my photography style as vintage and spiritual. Spiritual photography to me is about capturing the soul and connecting with your higher self. At the same time, my images carry a nostalgic feeling that evokes emotions within.”
“The aim is to capture the stories of our ancestors, honoring their legacy and the paths they paved. Through my art, I celebrate accepting our hair and our brown skin.”
“I usually draw inspiration from artists like Sjava, Erykah Badu, and Buhle Bendalo. Their music speaks to the soul, and what I love most is how they’ve all found themselves and developed their own unique styles in a world where everyone just follows trends and refuses to live their truth.”
Meaning and challenges
“I always try to make my pictures as African and authentic as possible, the hair, the beads and the face paint because we have forgotten who we truly are as black people.”
“One of the biggest challenges I face is people misinterpreting my art. Some see it as creepy, scary, or even demonic, and others think I’m crying out for help, when in reality I’m simply expressing myself and exploring deeper emotions through photography.”
“Photography has helped me connect with my soul and my guides. It allows me to reflect, express my emotions, and see the world in a deeper, more spiritual and meaningful way.”
Looking ahead
“I’d like to own an art gallery one day, and showcase my work to people who know how to appreciate real art.”
“Yes, I do. I see myself helping and guiding younger creatives and creating spaces where spirituality and visual art come together. I want to help others find their voice, trust their gifts, and use art as a way to connect deeply with the universe and themselves.”
Message to young creatives
“Don’t be afraid to be yourself, there’s always an audience out there ready to celebrate you. You don’t need to have fancy gadgets or perfect tools to do what you love, all you need is passion, vision and creativity.”
“What’s important about my story and my art is that they come from the soul. I create to express myself, celebrate my identity, and remind people that it’s okay to be themselves. Every piece is about connecting with your soul and finding yourself.”
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