Nokwanda Zondi is not just capturing moments, she’s creating a legacy. Hailing from Edendale, Pietermaritzburg, this talented young woman is carving her place in the world of sport photography with purpose and pride.
Now based in Johannesburg and working with South Africa’s leading sports photography agency, BackpagePix, Nokwanda’s rise in the industry is a story of courage, creativity, and commitment.
“I enjoy sports and being able to tell stories through the lens,” says Nokwanda, who joined BackpagePix in September 2023. In less than a year, she’s already covered a breathtaking variety of major events: from the 2023 AFCON and FIFA African Qualifiers to the Telkom Netball League and the Basketball Africa League.
Her camera has captured the magic of Bafana Bafana’s historic AFCON bronze medal, the drama of the Soweto Derby, and the energy of the Engen Champion of Champions.
But her path into photography wasn’t always clear-cut. “My love for photography and sport all started in high school,” she explains.
“We were always encouraged to participate in sport and extramural activities. I played hockey, badminton, basketball, and swam. I also did a modelling course, and that’s when my appreciation for the arts began.”
After leaving her corporate job in 2022 to pursue photography full-time, Nokwanda began shooting local netball and cricket matches for friends. That leap of faith changed everything. “A year later, I was offered a junior photographer role at BackpagePix,” she says proudly.
Being part of South Africa’s top sports photography agency has fast-tracked her growth behind the lens. “It means a great deal,” she says.
“Working with mentors like Samuel Shivambu, Muzi Ntombela, and Sydney Mahlangu, who have over 15 years of experience, has been an incredible blessing. Their feedback and encouragement continue to shape me.”
One of her most unforgettable moments came during the 2023 AFCON. “It was surreal: I got to sit next to Mohamed Salah! We even had a lovely chat. I had to pinch myself,” she laughs. Another standout assignment was being appointed personal photographer to CAF President Dr Patrice Motsepe. “That moment reminded me how our work can open doors to rooms we never imagined we’d enter.”
Despite being in a male-dominated field, Nokwanda says her experience has been welcoming. “My male colleagues have been respectful and pleasant. In this industry, we focus more on the work than gender. I believe if you respect others and your craft, you will be respected too.”
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As a Black woman in sport photography, her presence is already shifting perceptions. “When a young girl sees someone like her behind the camera, it encourages her to believe she belongs too,” she says. “I want them to see my journey and feel inspired to step into these spaces, not for applause, but to grow and succeed.”
She sees visual storytelling as a crucial tool in the growth of women’s sport.
“One photograph can change the way someone sees the world. A young girl might see an image of Khanyisa Chawane lifting the African Netball Cup and believe she can achieve greatness too. That’s the power of the lens.”
Beyond the stadiums, Nokwanda is also signed to Rage Models. Balancing two creative careers isn’t always easy, but she’s found her rhythm. “There’s a time for everything. I make sure not to double-book myself. That never ends well!” she jokes. “Both industries have taught me to step out of my comfort zone, to be prepared, and to own my space.”
Her personal favourite photograph? A special family portrait she took in 2018 with the first camera she bought using savings from her internship at SAPS. “It’s printed and placed on my grandmother’s room divider. It means so much to me, it’s not just printed on paper, it’s printed in my heart.”
Looking ahead, Nokwanda dreams of starting her own photography company, where she can mentor young women who want to follow in her footsteps. Her message to girls from small towns and underrepresented communities is crystal clear: Start where you are.
“There might be a team in your town who needs someone like you. Use the skills you have, maybe it’s admin, managing social media, physiotherapy, or sponsorships. Enrol in a course if needed, but most importantly, trust the process and don’t be afraid to begin.”
With purpose in her heart and a camera in her hand, Nokwanda is capturing not just moments, but a movement.
Main Photo Caption: From Pietermaritzburg to the biggest stages in African sport — Meet Nokwanda Zondi, the dynamic sports photographer changing the game one frame at a time. A powerful voice for women in sport and media. All Photos: Supplied
Photo 2 Caption: A sports fan who enjoys telling stories through her lens, Nokwanda is carving her place in the world of sport photography.
Photo 3 Caption: Nokwanda’s message to girls from small towns and underrepresented communities is crystal clear: ‘Start where you are!’
Photo 4 Caption: She sees visual storytelling as a key tool for women’s sport. “One photograph can change the world – That’s the power of the lens.”
Photo 5 Caption: “I want them to see my journey and feel inspired to step into these spaces, not for applause, but to grow and succeed.”
