Art enthusiasts from Sasolburg and surrounding areas now have an opportunity to nurture their skills following an opening of a mobile art studio recently – all thanks to a partnership between Nestlé and one of South Africa’s talented artists, Unlock Mlangeni.
Mlangeni, popularly known as “Coffee Bae” gained prominence after using Nestlé’s NESCAFÉ RICOFFY granules to create some of his now world-famous paintings. However, due to financial constraints and lack of a proper studio, he operated from his shack in Sasolburg. These challenges did not deter his determination as some of his artworks have won him numerous accolades, locally and internationally.
Commenting on why Nestlé partnered with Mlangeni, Nicole Roos, Business Executive Officer: Beverages at Nestlé South Africa said the company’s decision on any stakeholder collaboration is informed by sustainability and creating shared-value with communities.
“As Nestlé, we continuously and strategically partner with various stakeholders and individuals who share our objectives on community development. Ennock’s journey of utilising his talent to impact his community, perfectly resonates with our purpose. Through our NESCAFÉ RICOFFY brand, we decided to support his vision by funding an art studio that will also benefit the Sasolburg community and surrounding areas.”
“Ennock is an immensely talented artist who uses his talent to economically uplift his community. His mission of training other young art enthusiasts as well as helping them hone their business management skills, shows a young man who possesses a long-term vision,” added Roos.
An elated Mlangeni stated that the opening of the studio is a dream come true. “I want to sincerely thank Nestlé for believing in my dream. This is a dream coming true. Growing up in Sasolburg had its fair share of socio-economic challenges but these did not deter me from pursuing my art talent. When I could not afford to study art, I taught myself in my shack.”
“This is a community art studio, as such, I want to utilise my skills to produce more and better Ennocks from our community. I further encourage different role-players around Sasolburg to support us because through art, we can contribute to our township’s social and economic growth,” concluded Mlangeni.
The NESCAFÉ RICOFFY brand essence is all about sharing moments of pride with our loyal customers, with a particular target on young, trendy, determined and visionary youth.
