Rooted in Maphumulo
Reaching for the future
A grassroots NPO born from community, driven by youth potential turning rural talent into lasting impact.
Born from community, built for youth
Mzurayza Ingwenya Foundation (MIF) was established in 2019 by Mzuvele Mkhize, a young musician and entrepreneur from KwaMaphumulo Ward 11, popularly known as Mzurayza in the arts and culture industry.
The organisation started operating as a Non-Profit Company before formally transitioning to a registered Non-Profit Organisation in 2025, a step that reflects our commitment to long-term, accountable community impact. We are based in KwaMaphumulo, under the iLembe District Municipality in KwaZulu-Natal, serving one of the most vibrant yet underserved rural communities in the province.
Our Vision
To be a creative space where every person, mainly youth from rural areas — has access to skill development, sport, arts and culture.
Our Mission
To empower young people through the promotion and development of education, sport, arts and culture in rural communities.
Organisation at a glance
Our core objectives
Our work is guided by four interconnected objectives that address the full needs of rural youth — from creative expression to economic opportunity.
Arts & culture training
Providing arts and culture training programmes, academic support, skill development, career guidance and counselling services to enable educationally disadvantaged people to enter the creative industry or find employment.
Promotion of sport, arts & culture
Training in visual arts, drama, dance, indigenous arts and music. Providing platforms for performances, shows and festivals. Exposing youth to cultural diversity through workshops, exhibitions and visits. Preserving heritage and culture.
Social & economic development
Providing opportunities for individuals and organisations to participate in the social and economic development of target communities, and developing leaders among the youth of rural communities.
Early childhood & educare support
Supporting needy educare and early childhood development facilities through empowerment of pre-school staff, fundraising for resources, and helping organisations access government grants to become financially sustainable.
A community that needs proactive action
Maphumulo is becoming an area associated with crime, drug abuse and gender-based violence — yet it has enormous wealth in artistic talent. We will never win the war against social issues by being reactive. The Mzurayza Ingwenya Foundation exists to be proactive — giving youth a creative outlet before they become vulnerable.