BMW Celebrates Heritage: A Tribute to Dr. Esther Mahlangu & Her New Home

Stepping into the new home of Dr. Esther Mahlangu in Kwa-Ndebele feels like entering an oasis of Ndebele culture—an exquisite palace of dreams. Recently, BMW proudly handed over this vibrant house, a beautiful acknowledgment of Ndebele heritage and a heartfelt celebration of Gogo Esther, as she is affectionately known.

The event was a colourful affair, with the walls of her new home adorned with stunning artwork painted by her students, showcasing the rich traditions of the Ndebele people. Tebogo Ramakgosi, BMW's CSI Director, opened the ceremony with a flair that set the tone for the celebration.

Honoring a Cultural Icon

Among the speakers, MMC Magola emphasized Gogo Esther's pivotal role in putting Nkangala and the Dr. JS Moroka Municipality on the global map through her world-renowned paintings. Xolani Mahlangu, representing the family, welcomed guests warmly, evoking the spirit of family gatherings reminiscent of December celebrations at grandma's house.

Peter van Binsbergen, CEO of BMW Africa, expressed deep gratitude to Gogo Esther for her contributions in transforming the cultural landscape of the automobile industry. He highlighted the significance of her art in redefining perceptions of South African culture on an international stage.

The heartfelt sentiments continued with the Honorable MEC Mabuza of Mpumalanga, who celebrated Gogo Esther's achievements and the pride she instills in the community. A local councilor also offered a vote of thanks, acknowledging Gogo Esther for elevating the Ndebele culture through her art and thanking BMW for honoring her legacy.

Gogo Esther's Vibrant Spirit

Gogo Esther captivated the audience with her vibrant speech, embodying the beauty and love she has for her art. At her ripe age, she shared cherished memories of watching children paint around her and how she began her own artistic journey with a simple feather that danced with every color. Her tales of international travels—Washington, New York, California, Portugal, and France—brought the room to life with laughter and joy, revealing her infectious spirit.

She expressed her happiness about her new home, where she plans to relax and find inspiration for future creations. It was a profound moment, witnessing a national treasure being celebrated with love and respect.

Scenes: Gogo Esther Mahlangu Ndebele Gallery & Guest House

The Culture of BMW Group: A Stagalogue with Peter van Binsbergen

After the ceremony, we caught up with Peter van Binsbergen to delve deeper into BMW's relationship with South African art and culture.

Stagnot: How does BMW's collaboration with South African artists reflect your commitment to cultural exchange?

Peter: BMW collaborates across various art forms—classical music, jazz, architecture, and especially contemporary artists. Our partnership with Esther began in 1991 when she became the first African and the first female artist to create an art car for BMW. This collaboration has been a win-win, providing Esther with global exposure while showcasing a distinct art form.

Stagnot: What role should the private sector play in addressing youth unemployment and skills development in South Africa?*

Peter: The private sector has a crucial role in job creation and skills development. BMW is actively involved in programs like the Yes for Youth initiative, which provides first-time work experiences for young people. By collaborating with the government, we can drive economic growth and create more jobs, which is essential for combating unemployment.

Stagnot: Are there plans for art-focused programs for youth, leveraging BMW's partnerships with local artists?*

Peter: Yes! We've recently partnered with the Iziko South African National Gallery to support their art education project, which aims to expose disadvantaged school children to various art mediums. This initiative fosters a love for art and helps shape the next generation of artists.

Stagnot: How can BMW's art and design initiatives be replicated in other African markets?

Peter: These initiatives can be replicated in any market by finding the right fit between the company and local artists, fostering long-term relationships that benefit both parties. Our collaboration with Esther is a prime example of how this can lead to sustainable success.

A Lasting Legacy

BMW embodies the vibrant life and culture of South Africa, harmonizing sophistication with the colorful spirit of its diverse communities. Gogo Esther Mahlangu represents this beautiful fusion, adorning the world with her Ndebele art and wisdom.

As we celebrate her legacy, South Africa takes immense pride in having nurtured an icon like Gogo Esther—an embodiment of resilience, creativity, and cultural richness. Through initiatives like these, BMW not only champions artistic expression but also paves the way for a brighter, more colorful future for generations to come.

We invite you to explore more of Gogo Esther's inspiring works and stay connected with the vibrant culture that BMW fosters. Follow the BMW Group Culture on Instagram to be part of this exciting journey and witness how art and innovation intertwine to create a lasting impact.