BANATHI GUNGQISA
At just seven years old, Hudson Park Primary School Grade 1 pupil Wongwa Ngcangisa is already proving that artistic flair has no age limit.
From making her own distinct clothing and hairstyle choices as a toddler, to having her artwork exhibited at the Belgravia Art Centre when she was just five,
Now, her passion has blossomed into a thriving handmade jewellery hobby, capturing hearts across her community with vibrant, custom-beaded bracelets and necklaces.
The young artist talks about the process with enthusiasm.
“I like doing same colours using the same design, and actually putting them into life,” Wongwa said.
“I also craft jewellery using rainbow colours.”
Her passion for beadwork and jewellery design intensified during the term three school holidays, when she began dedicating her free time to crafting unique beaded pieces.
Her mother, Siphosethu Ngcangisa, who is herself a creative, noticed her daughter’s exceptional eye for art at an early age through her unique choices in clothing, hairstyles, and even when it came to home decor.
“She had a combination of different colours, her choices of hairstyles, as well as the wall paintings,” Ngcangisa said.
“Like every child when they grow, she also drew on walls.
“I could not scold her because her choice of colours were captivating, though she had to clean them up herself.
“She would also pick different colours of flowers from people’s gardens – she loves flowers.”
Ngcangisa said she continues to nurture Wongwa’s artistic development through shared activities at home, often hosting friendly drawing competitions to see who can create the best design.
She said Wongwa also draws inspiration from digital platforms to expand her crafting techniques.
“She enjoys doing it at school and at home.
“She gets some inspiration from the kiddies shows she watches on YouTube.
“I remember one of her doll outfits was made from a surgical mask, where she only needed glue and scissors to cut it and create a top.”
Unlike many children who outgrow early artistic phases, Wongwa’s passion has only deepened over time.
Ngcangisa said her daughter’s confidence soared after a neighbour noticed her creations and asked her to make custom pieces.
“That’s how she became more confident,” Siphosethu said.
“Some people ask me where I got an item from, which means they are genuinely interested in my daughter’s crafts.
