In the OFM Art Beat, Mid-Morning Magic’s Yolanda Maartens is joined by Free State-based photographer Bongani Tshabalala who was selected among 415 000 image submissions from over 200 counties and territories.

The photograph titled "Great Joy" which landed Bongani the award.

Bonganisaid to OFM News that he feels “Very, very great and that the journey has been amazing” He thanked Sony for acknowledging and accepting his work. In the interview with Yolanda he shared some advice for upcoming and aspiring photographers as well.

The Sony World Photography Awards is a free-to-enter event created by the world photography organisation and it serves as an authoritative voice in the industry. This award includes winning Sony imaging equipment, inclusion in the annual photography award book and exhibition at Somerset House in London in April 2023

The photograph titled 'Montsho' that landed Bongani his previous win.

To see more of Bongani’s work you can visit his Instagram page visuals_by_chef or on Facebook at Bongani Tshabalala.

The Free State Art Collective’s main purpose is to develop and support the careers of all the artists who belong as members and to raise awareness of talent in the Free State, thereby developing a more visible national presence. The Collective also aims to mentor emerging artists and to provide a network of information and opportunity. Workshops will be offered by professionals, providing further skills and conceptual development training; with the intention of keeping Free Sate artists connected to national trends and new innovations in art production and practice.