Fhatuwani Mukheli, the multidisciplinary artist from Soweto known for his work in painting, photography and film, as well as for co-founding the collective I See a Different You, has created a mural for the new Boys of Soweto flagship store in Braamfontein, 99 Juta Street. The piece honours the brand’s origins while framing its next chapter, visually grounding the store in the identity that shaped it.
Photo Cred: Fhatuwani Mukheli/Threads
The mural stands as a symbol of pride and progress, tracing Boys of Soweto’s rise from a small creative collective into one of South Africa’s most recognisable fashion brands. The artwork strengthens the store’s purpose as a space that champions African fashion, design and creativity.
The Mural’s Connection to Art and Fashion
Mukheli’s artwork pays tribute to the brand’s Soweto roots, symbolising both its journey and its future aspirations. It anchors the store as a destination that celebrates African excellence, continuing a vision that began on the historic streets of Soweto.
Photo Cred: Fhatuwani Mukheli/Threads
Known for its sophisticated designs that honour its heritage while speaking to the modern man, Boys of Soweto has carved out a distinctive place in South Africa’s fashion landscape. Founder and creative director Vusumuzi “Bob the Stylist” Ndima has built a brand rooted in African identity while confidently placing Kasi culture on the global fashion stage.
Photo Cred: Boys Of Soweto
To position Boys of Soweto with an international audience… I believe I can build something that stands alongside the world’s best while staying rooted in who we are.” — Vusumuzi “Bob the Stylist” Ndima
That belief was planted more than a decade ago when Ndima began experimenting with visual storytelling and streetwear. With the launch of his new flagship in November, Mukheli’s mural and now the store’s central art piece, captures Ndima’s journey of building and shaping Boys of Soweto.
Photo Cred: Fhatuwani Mukheli/Threads
But Ndima’s work stretches beyond fashion. Through his mentorship programme In the Boys Today, Men Tomorrow, he continues to uplift and inspire young men in Soweto and Ekurhuleni, encouraging them to dream beyond their circumstances.
Fhatuwani Mukheli’s Artistic Style
Mukheli’s work is deeply personal, often drawn from childhood memories and lived experiences in Soweto. His art centres the themes of identity, family and urban culture, with a visual language that’s recognisably his own.
This one is special. Vusimuzi and I literally grew up together in Soweto, so creating something for him now, after finding our way back to collaboration, it feels full-circle. Having my work on this wall, carrying the joy and playfulness we had as kids, means everything.” — Fhatuwani Mukheli
Photo Cred: Fhatuwani Mukheli/Threads
Reflecting further on the mural, he adds:
And on top of that, stepping deeper into murals is something I manifested for myself last year. It feels like another dream unfolding.”
Check out the Boys Of Soweto flagship in Braamfontein, 99 Juta street and get some inspiration from the mural whilst shopping for some coveted items.
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