Children of the Light: A Youth Month Celebration of Art, Identity, and Legacy at the JSE

by Sibusiso Bheka

This Youth Month, art and activism converge at the Johannesburg Stock Exchange, where the photographic exhibition Children of the Light invites visitors to witness the power of youth, storytelling, and creative legacy. In collaboration with Of Soul & Joy and the JSE’s Art Share initiative, this exhibition shines a light on young South African photographers who are redefining the future, one frame at a time.

Running from 7 June to 31 July 2025 at the JSE in Sandton, the exhibition culminates in a special public walkabout on Saturday 28 June at 11:00am. Admission is free, but RSVP is essential.

Curated by interdisciplinary artist and cultural worker Refilwe Nkomo, Children of the Light explores themes of memory, identity, and aspiration. It showcases the bold and deeply intimate work of student and alumni photographers from Of Soul & Joy’s photography mentorship programme based in Thokoza. Featured artists include Jabulani Dlamini, Thembinkosi Hlatshwayo, Tshepiso Mazibuko, Sibusiso Bheka, Vuyo Mabheka, Lunathi Mngxuma, Sibusiso Sithonga, Fuwe Molefe, and Zwelibanzi Zwane.

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Through their lenses, these artists offer viewers a glimpse into the lived experiences and inner worlds of a generation that is both navigating and reshaping contemporary South Africa. Their work speaks of struggle and joy, connection and solitude, rootedness and reinvention.

“This exhibition is centred around connection,” says curator Refilwe Nkomo. “It’s where art and industry come together, bringing different generations and communities into the same space. Children of the Light is a call to imagine and create a more inclusive future, led by the youth who carry both the burden and the brilliance of this moment.”

The JSE’s involvement through Art Share is about more than displaying art. It is a strategic move to use the platform and influence of South Africa’s largest stock exchange to uplift the country’s creative sector. By offering visibility to young photographers and investing in their work, the JSE is reinforcing the value of cultural capital in the country’s broader economic story.

“At the JSE, we are proud to support Of Soul & Joy,” says Vuyo Lee, Director of Marketing and Corporate Affairs at the JSE. “Art Share is not only about celebrating young talent, but also about contributing to inclusive growth and unlocking the potential of the creative economy.”

Of Soul & Joy Programme Manager Jabulani Dhlamini adds, “The youth are the custodians of the future. Through photography, they learn not only to see differently, but to lead differently. This exhibition affirms their voice, vision, and value.”

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The walkabout offers a rare chance for the public to engage with the curator and artists, explore the stories behind the photographs, and understand the impact of mentorship in shaping creative futures. As part of its commitment, the JSE will also be purchasing at least one artwork from the exhibition, with proceeds going to the artist and Of Soul & Joy; a tangible reinforcement of the exhibition’s goals.

At its core, Children of the Light invites everyone, from finance professionals to art enthusiasts, to pause and reflect. It is a space where commerce meets creativity, and where the voices of the youth echo with clarity, power, and hope.

To RSVP for the walkabout or for more information, visit this link.