Sobekwa’s interest in photography was sparked at a young age when he received a disposable camera as a gift. Despite the limited resources in his township, he began documenting everyday life around him, capturing moments of joy, sorrow, resilience, and hope. His early photographs often depicted the stark realities of life in Thokoza – poverty, violence, and the enduring spirit of its people.
One of Sobekwa’s most notable projects is his documentation of the aftermath of the Marikana massacre in 2012, where 34 striking miners were killed by police during a labor dispute. His photographs provided a raw and unfiltered glimpse into the grief and anger that gripped the nation in the wake of the tragedy. Through his lens, Sobekwa brought attention to the human cost of South Africa’s ongoing struggle for economic justice and highlighted the systemic inequalities that continue to plague the country.
In addition to his documentary work, Sobekwa has also explored themes of identity and belonging in his photography. His series “I Carry Her Photo with Me” is a deeply personal reflection on loss and memory, inspired by the death of his sister due to complications from HIV/AIDS. Through intimate portraits and candid snapshots, Sobekwa honors his sister’s life while confronting the stigma and silence that surrounds the disease in South African society.
Despite facing numerous challenges as a young photographer – from lack of funding to limited access to equipment – Sobekwa has continued to pursue his passion with unwavering determination. His work has been exhibited internationally and has earned him accolades within the photography community. In 2017, he was selected as a Magnum Foundation fellow, providing him with the opportunity to further develop his skills and expand his artistic vision.
Beyond his individual achievements, Sobekwa remains committed to using his photography as a tool for social change. He actively engages with his community, leading workshops and mentoring aspiring photographers from marginalized backgrounds. Through initiatives like the “Of Soul and Joy” project, he seeks to empower young people to tell their own stories and challenge stereotypes about life in South African townships.
Looking ahead, Sobekwa’s work continues to evolve as he explores new techniques and mediums of expression. Whether capturing the vibrancy of street life or shedding light on the hidden struggles of his subjects, his photography serves as a powerful reminder of the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Lindokuhle Sobekwa’s journey as a photographer is not only a reflection of his own personal growth and artistic vision but also a testament to the transformative power of visual storytelling in confronting social injustice and inspiring change.
