For this task I was required to research two make-up artists. The second MUA I chose to study was Bongi Mlotshwa. As I have chosen South Africa for my culture, I felt it was appropriate to research one of the country’s largest names in hair and make-up.
Born on the 30th of September 1969, in South Africa, Bongi Mlotshwa is a renowned make-up artist, working mainly in film and TV. Her professional journey began in 1997, when she studied make-up at the Face To Face Academy. She is also mother to one of South Africa’s most famous actresses’ and TV presenter, Mbali Mlotshwa.
During her career, Bongi has worked as a celebrity make-up artist, but has mainly focused her work on film and TV soaps. Known for her gorgeous, less is more finish, Bongi is a perfect example of the embrace for natural beauty that is celebrated in South Africa.
Bongi’s work can be seen in soaps and films such as; Generations; The Legacy, The river, Zulu wedding, She is King, Farewell Ella Bella, Society and State enemy no.1. She is also responsible for creating the Plan B Beauty Team, mentoring young and upcoming hair and make-up artists, allowing for a smoother transition into the industry.
Within her 29 year (and continuing) professional career, Bongi has been nominated for multiple Golden Horn Awards including; wardrobe,make-up and hair styling in a TV soap (2016), make-up and hair in a TV soap (2017), best achievement in hair and make-up for telenova (2019), Make-up and hair in a feature film (2020), and Make-up and hair styling for a TV soap (2020 and 2022). She has won twice, being awarded the SAFTA Golden Horn for Best Achievement in Make-up and Hair styling in a TV Soap in 2016, for her work on Generations, as well as winning the same award in 2020 for her work on The River.
Megan Hoff 