Go-getter Smindlo on the move with his talents
ACROSS Zululand and the province, people know the name Smindlo Lo Ophushayo.
His love for the people and his ability to make friends wherever he goes continue to capture many Zululand hearts and open doors.
Despite reaching 25 000 followers on his Facebook page and 15 000 on the Smindlo on Digital page he launched a couple of years ago, he remains humble and dedicated to his photography and social media more than ever before, and is moving up in the entertainment industry.
Owing to his hard work and personality, he has been appointed as permanent photographer for Richards Bay FC and travels with the team.
Born as Mandla Shandu, the 28-yearold Aquadene man has been promoting entertainment events, local artists, musicians, sportsmen, charities, community leaders and individuals for years.
He began by volunteering his services at events years ago and made a difference in the community through social media.
After completing high school at Aquadene Secondary, his family was unable to afford tertiary fees, so Smindlo decided to offer his services to the community free of charge.
Through his social media pages, he helped promote local talent and community initiatives.
'I had a dream of being an influencer and I love taking photos. Because no one was willing to give me work, I decided to just volunteer at events and that's how it all begun.
'I soon realised there was a bigger entertainment scene right here in Richards
Bay after meeting aspiring deejays and entertainment promoters,' he said.
'People told me to just go out everywhere and take pictures, and soon I was offered work as a photographer and received many invites from all over the region.
'But I didn't have a camera then and I had to borrow money.'
Volunteering his services opened many doors of opportunity.
This resulted in him winning the Social Media Influencer of the Year Award at the 035 Awards in 2018.
'Looking back, I'm grateful I followed my heart, because it has opened many doors for me and I appreciate how many are beginning to respect me and the work I do.' he said.
'Many people have been in my corner and saw potential in me even back then. I will always be grateful to those people, as well as the Zululand Observer which featured my work.'