Thokoza’s Heartbeat: The Township Through the Lens of the Youth!

Photo Credit: Fuwe Molefe

An exciting new exhibition has Thokoza in the spotlight. Captured through the lens of the youth, ‘I Put My Hand On My Chest To Feel My Heartbeat’ showcases the vibrance, stories and people that make up Thokoza’s heartbeat.

Johannesburg, South Africa (26 January 2025) – Of Soul & Joy, an educational programme dedicated to empowering youth through photography, is proud to announce the exciting showcase of the Thokoza township through the lens of its youth via the I Put My Hand On My Chest To Feel My Heartbeat Exhibition!

Set to be hosted at the historic Constitution Hill Gallery from 1 February, the public will be able to step into the vibrant community of Thokoza in a profound, vibrant and unique fashion that sees Thokoza come alive through personal stories and visual narratives captured by some of South Africa’s most promising emerging photographers.

Curated by Constitution Hill Creative Uprising Hub co-ordinator and seasoned multidisciplinary artist Lesole Tauatswala, the exhibition is also a celebration of 30 years of democracy. It showcases intimate moments and displays of creativity that tell the stories of Thokoza and its residents—the heartbeat of it all.

The photographs, taken by past and present OSJ students, highlight the ordinary and extraordinary aspects of daily life, focusing on the youth of the township as they navigate their environment.

“I Put My Hand On My Chest To Feel My Heartbeat serves as an entry point into a complex narrative, where each image encapsulates the pulse of this vibrant community,” says Jabulani Dhlamini, OSJ Project Manager. “Through the voices of these young photographers, the exhibition explores the personal and collective stories that make up the soul of Thokoza. It’s an introspective journey into the heart of the township, where themes such as identity, heritage, love, spirituality, and family are interwoven to create a multifaceted portrait of life in this part of South Africa.”

The works on display range from deeply personal explorations of family dynamics and identity to broader social themes such as belonging and cultural symbolism. The artists reflect on their unique relationships with their subjects, with many examining the ways in which clothing, physical gestures, and ancestral connections shape their understanding of self and community. Others delve into the symbolism embedded in everyday moments, offering an exploration of spirituality and the ties between the living and the ancestors.

“The Of Soul & Joy project’s dedication to empowering underprivileged youth and fostering community development is a mission we at Con Hill identify and greatly resonate with,” says Lesole Tauatswala. “In offering creative spaces for self-expression and skill-building, the project’s mentorship programmes and collaborative workshops foster a sense of belonging and pride in their students’ communities, encouraging them to realise their potential and pursue their dreams.“

The exhibition also serves as a testament to the evolution of Thokoza’s youth over the past 30 years, showcasing how they continue to navigate the complexities of South African life and the shared history of their community. Through photography, the artists offer not just a snapshot of life but a window into the future of South African storytelling.

Exhibition Details

The exhibition is set to run from 1 February to 31 March 2025 at the Constitution Hill Gallery.
In addition to the exhibition, visitors will have the opportunity to engage in walkabouts and panel discussions. These events will provide deeper insight into the creative process behind the works and the significance of Thokoza’s youth in shaping the cultural fabric of South Africa.
Walkabouts will be scheduled in mid-February
Panel Discussions: Two engaging panel discussions will take place, with the first occurring on 01 March 2025. The second panel discussion will be part of Constitution Hill’s annual Human Rights Festival on March 21, 2025.