By Siphesihle Dlamini
Benele Jeffrey’s recent portrait of renowned entrepreneur Vusi Thembekwayo stands as a testament to the power of creativity and recognition.
The unveiling of this portrait at the Unlock Summit not only marked a significant moment for Jeffrey but also highlighted the importance of honouring individuals who inspire and uplift communities. In an exclusive interview, Jeffrey shared his thoughts on the inspiration behind the portrait, his creative process, and the profound impact of Vusi Thembekwayo on his artistic journey.
When asked about the motivation for choosing Vusi Thembekwayo as his subject, Jeffrey expressed deep admiration for the entrepreneur. “Vusi Thembekwayo is an inspiration and mentor, not just to me, but to many,” he stated. “I drew this portrait last year to give him his flowers while he can still smell them.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of Jeffrey’s work, an effort to celebrate those who have made significant contributions to society.
The opportunity to present the portrait to Thembekwayo at the Unlock Summit was a dream come true for Jeffrey. “Honestly, it was surreal. Nerve-wracking, humbling, and emotional, all at once,” he recalled. The weight of presenting such a personal piece to someone who has influenced thousands was not lost on him. “But I was also filled with gratitude. It felt like a dream realised,” he added, reflecting on the significance of the occasion.
The moment Vusi Thembekwayo laid eyes on the portrait was one that Jeffrey will cherish forever. “He was visibly moved. He looked at the portrait in silence for a few seconds, which felt like forever,” Jeffrey recounted. The entrepreneur’s response was simple yet powerful: “Ngiyabonga kakhulu, Benele.” According to Jeffrey, it wasn’t just the words that resonated with him, but the energy with which Thembekwayo received the artwork. “The way he received it with such dignity and appreciation told me everything I needed to know. That moment will stay with me forever,” he reflected.
Creating the portrait was a labour of love that required over 100 hours of meticulous work. Jeffrey shared insights into his creative process, stating, “I used charcoal as my primary medium; it’s raw, expressive, and honest.” His technique involves layering to build contrast gradually, with a particular focus on capturing the emotion in the eyes. “I’m obsessive about detail, hoping that it automatically brings a smile to anyone who sees it,” he explained.
However, the journey was not without its challenges. “One of the biggest challenges was emotional,” he admitted. “When you’re drawing someone who’s inspired you so deeply, there’s pressure to get it right, not just in terms of technique, but in feeling.” At one point, Jeffrey found himself questioning whether the piece did justice to Thembekwayo’s story. “Luckily, I was able to pull through,” he said, demonstrating resilience in the face of self-doubt.
For Jeffrey, Vusi Thembekwayo represents much more than a successful entrepreneur; he embodies excellence, resilience, and African confidence. “He speaks boldly about things many fear to touch, and he carries himself with unapologetic purpose,” Jeffrey noted. This understanding influenced Jeffrey’s artistic interpretation, as he aimed to create a portrait that felt alive and spoke volumes even in silence.
Jeffrey believes that art plays a crucial role in celebrating and honouring successful individuals within the community. “Art freezes a moment in time. It immortalises people,” he explained. By using art to honour individuals, especially those from local communities, we foster a culture of recognition and appreciation. “It shows the next generation that success is possible and that excellence deserves to be remembered, not in words alone, but in image and spirit,” he added.
Creating the portrait was not only an artistic endeavour but also a journey of personal growth for Jeffrey. “One lesson that hit me hard: you don’t always know where your art will take you, but you must create as if the world is watching,” he shared. He began the portrait months before he ever met Thembekwayo, underscoring the importance of being prepared for opportunities that may arise unexpectedly. “Always be ready. Prepare before the door opens,” he advised.
Through his work, Jeffrey aims to convey themes of truth, legacy, and the often-overlooked narratives of African voices. “As someone from Eswatini, I’ve seen how our stories are often sidelined,” he explained. His portraits strive to amplify these voices authentically, reflecting the richness of African culture and experiences. “My art is spiritual, emotional, and rooted in storytelling,” he said, emphasising the depth of his creative vision.
Over the years, Jeffrey’s artistic style has evolved significantly. “In the beginning, it was about skill; now it’s about meaning,” he noted. While he still values technique, his focus has shifted toward creating emotional impact. “African culture, spirituality, and even current social issues have influenced me greatly,” he shared, illustrating how his experiences have shaped his artistic journey.
Looking ahead, Jeffrey has ambitious plans for his art. “I’m interested in portraying African trailblazers across different fields, from activists to unsung heroes in rural communities,” he revealed. He also expressed a desire to explore themes surrounding mental health, African spirituality, and the experiences of young black creatives. “These are stories that need to be told,” he emphasised.
For those looking to carve their path in the art world, Jeffrey offers sage advice: “Don’t wait for validation. Create relentlessly. Improve your craft, tell stories that matter, and be patient with the process.” He encourages aspiring artists to use whatever resources they have, even if it’s just paper and a pencil. “Your breakthrough won’t come by chasing trends; it’ll come by being authentic and consistent. And above all, honour your roots. That’s your power,” he concluded.
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