In 2022, at the age of 22, Lungile Ngcobo embarked on her photography career with a degree in Photography but limited practical experience. Residing in Soweto, Gauteng, Lungile was eager to develop her skills and seize new opportunities, which led her to join the Youth Employment Service (YES), sponsored by Pizza Hut and hosted by Tilt Culture. Her role as a Youth Content Collective (YCC) content creator marked the beginning of her professional growth.

During her time with YES, Lungile’s career blossomed. She gained invaluable experience working with production companies such as Lampost Productions and had the privilege of assisting renowned commercial photographer Tatenda Chidora, who later became her mentor through the Market Photo Workshop Incubator Programme.

Her talent soon gained recognition through collaborations with prestigious galleries like Stevenson Gallery and Latitude Online, where her work was featured in the Latitude Art Fair and Women Exhibition. Lungile also became part of the art collective Occupying The Gallery, under the mentorship of Mary Sibande and Lawrence Lemaoana, which led to exhibitions at Smac Gallery Johannesburg and a residency at Nirox Sculpture Park.

One of her most notable achievements to date was winning first prize at the Sanlam Art Exhibition, in partnership with YES, for her photograph titled "Grandmother".

Now 24, Lungile has established herself as a freelance photographer, fine artist, and content creator for David Krut Projects, currently based in North Riding, Gauteng. She continues to refine her craft and grow her entrepreneurial journey through collaborations with other artists and building connections within the YES Alumni community, which has facilitated access to valuable resources and opportunities.

Despite facing challenges along the way, Lungile describes her journey as highly rewarding. She has gained valuable exposure through various programmes and industry insights. Exhibiting with Smac Gallery, Latitude Online, and the French Institute of South Africa, along with her residency at Nirox Sculpture Park, have been career highlights. The mentorship she received from Tatenda Chidora, Mary Sibande, and Lawrence Lemaoana has been particularly influential in shaping her career.

Looking to the future, Lungile aims to establish herself as a full-time artist and freelance commercial photographer, continuing her growth and making a lasting impact on the creative industry.

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