Rizah Potgieter
Nominee's Province:
Western Cape
Age:
34
Project Name/Description:
Master Artist & Director of Arts, S.M-ART
Rizah Potgieter is a master artist, educator, and visionary transforming South Africa’s creative landscape through mentorship and art. As Director of Arts at S.M-ART (Supporting Mentorship Through Art), she empowers the next generation by fusing technical excellence with emotional growth and professional readiness. Her approach is deeply personal each mentee is guided to find their unique voice, while also learning to navigate the practical realities of the art world. A self-taught talent whose journey began at age three, Rizah painted her first mural at just nine years old—unaware it was the start of a globally impactful career. From murals in France, Germany, and Dubai to painting for the French Ambassador on Bastille Day and contributing to My Spy 2, Rizah’s work has graced international stages. She also led the mural project for the Netball World Cup in South Africa and contributed to the 2024 Olympics in France. Raised in Mitchell’s Plain, she faced adversity with grit and grace. Today, her mission is to establish art schools across South Africa ensuring access and opportunity for all. Through S.M-ART, Rizah is not just nurturing artists she’s building a legacy of leadership, resilience, and creative freedom.
