Of Soul and Joy Photo Project

10/08/2026

08/08/2026

This August, we’re proud to host a month-long, women-led photography workshop as part of our Women’s Month celebration 🎉

Led by guest facilitators including Naledi Mkupa, Zanele Dhlamini, Tshepiso Mabula, Matsediso Dichaba and Life Ngubeni, our young female students will spend the month learning, creating, and being mentored by women who are shaping the future of creativity through hands-on experience and valuable industry insights.

In collaboration with the show « What We Do Not See » currently showing Wits Art Museum

26/07/2026

HOME. MEMORY. JOHANNESBURG.

What does home look like through the lens of those who know this city best?

Join us for the opening of What We Do Not See, a powerful new exhibition at Wits Art Museum that honours the legacy of legendary photographer David Goldblatt while bringing together the work of nine contemporary Johannesburg-based photographers inuding our very own Jabulani Dhlamini - exploring the places, people and relationships that shape our sense of home.

📍 Wits Art Museum, Johannesburg
🗓 Opening: Tuesday, 4 August 2026
🕕 Arrival from 18:00 | Opening at 18:30
🎟 Free entry

The exhibition runs until 24 October 2026, with free admission throughout.

Come and experience Johannesburg through stories that are often overlooked—but deeply felt.

19/07/2026

📸 What an incredible morning at Of Soul and Joy XIV: Assemblies of Community.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for our Round Table discussion and curator-led walkabout with curator ntobintombela

The conversation was insightful, honest and deeply engaging, with thought-provoking questions from attendees and members of the media that sparked meaningful dialogue around community, representation, storytelling and the role of photography in shaping collective memory. The energy in the room was undeniable, and the discussions continued long after the formal programme ended.

The guided walkabout offered a deeper understanding of the exhibition, giving guests an intimate look into the curatorial process and the powerful narratives captured by the young photographers of the Of Soul and Joy Project.
To everyone who attended, asked questions, shared perspectives and contributed to such a vibrant exchange of ideas... Thank you for making this event so memorable.

Here's to continuing the conversation and celebrating the power of photography to connect, challenge and inspire. 📷✨

19/07/2026

📸 What an incredible morning at Of Soul and Joy XIV: Assemblies of Community.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us for our Round Table discussion and curator-led walkabout with curator

The conversation was insightful, honest and deeply engaging, with thought-provoking questions from attendees and members of the media that sparked meaningful dialogue around community, representation, storytelling and the role of photography in shaping collective memory. The energy in the room was undeniable, and the discussions continued long after the formal programme ended.

The guided walkabout offered a deeper understanding of the exhibition, giving guests an intimate look into the curatorial process and the powerful narratives captured by the young photographers of the Of Soul and Joy Project.
To everyone who attended, asked questions, shared perspectives and contributed to such a vibrant exchange of ideas... Thank you for making this event so memorable.

Here's to continuing the conversation and celebrating the power of photography to connect, challenge and inspire. 📷✨

13/07/2026

03/07/2026

Rural Outreach Initiative 2026 | (Nkandla 2nd Visit)📷🌿
With the fundamentals of camera operation in place, in the same 1st week students look beyond the technical aspects of photography and into the art of visual storytelling.
The sessions introduced students to visual narrative exploring how photographs can
communicate emotion and even lived experience. Through discussions and image-making exercises, they began to understand that every photograph has the potential to tell a meaningful story.
Learning then moved beyond the classroom and into the community. Guided by our facilitators, students embarked on practical fieldwork, photographing the people, places, and everyday moments that shape their environment. As they applied the techniques learned during the opening sessions, they also strengthened their observational skills, developed confidence
behind the camera, and discovered new ways of seeing the familiar.
Photography became more than a tool for making images it became a way of connecting with
community, preserving lived experiences, and giving voice to stories that deserve to be seen
and remembered.
We’re incredibly proud of the curiosity, creativity, and dedication shown by every student, and
we’re excited to continue sharing their journey.

YouthEmpowerment DocumentaryPhotography with thanks to Easigas Pty Ltd Rubis Mécénat

30/06/2026

✨ Highlight Reel | Curator-Led Walkabout at Market Photo Workshop ✨

Last week, we had the privilege of hosting a special Curator-Led Walkabout as part of our Market Photo Workshop Series.

Led by , we journeyed through the exhibition, gaining deeper insight into the stories, themes, and artistic practices behind the works on display. It was an inspiring afternoon of conversation, reflection, and learning, bringing together photographers, artists, and members of the public through the power of visual storytelling.

📍 Market Photo Workshop
📅 6 June - 31 July 2026
🕒 From 11am

Thank you to everyone who joined us and helped make the walkabout such a meaningful experience. We look forward to welcoming you

30/06/2026

Our very own Sibusiso Bheka has been selected! 🖤📸

We are incredibly proud to celebrate Sibusiso Bheka, Of Soul and Joy's Project Assistant, whose exceptional work has earned him a place among this year's finalists at the International Photography Prize.

From documenting the everyday realities and remarkable beauty of Thokoza to exhibiting his work on international stages, Sibusiso continues to tell powerful stories through his lens. His dedication, talent, and unwavering commitment to photography inspire not only our students but the entire creative community.

Now he needs your vote! Every vote brings him one step closer to this incredible recognition.

👉 Please vote for Sibusiso and help us celebrate South African photographic excellence. The voting link is here https://refocus-awards.com/people-vote-award/umsebenzi

Congratulations, Sibusiso! Your Of Soul and Joy family is behind you every step of the way. ❤️