Phumzile Buthelezi was born in the year of the Soweto Uprising, a period marked by significant social and political change in South Africa. Her artistic journey began at Thulani Primary School, where she earned a third-place prize in a school drawing competition, igniting her passion for craft and creativity at an early age. Her secondary education was completed at Aurora Girls High School, followed by St. Enda’s Community College, where she obtained her Matric Certificate. Throughout her life, she has been passionate about crafting and art, nurturing her talents from a young age. pursuit of formal artistic and design training, Phumzile undertook various short courses in design and print making and eventually joined Artist Proof Studio to deepen her expertise in art.
Her work and talents have been recognized through patronage and commissions, including partnerships with notable organisations such as: Tracker (2008/9) ; William Kentridge (2009);Hudaco Bearings Company (2010). Phumzile Buthelezi’s journey reflects a deep dedication to her craft, with a rich portfolio of community projects, commissioned artworks, and continuous development in the arts.