Jane Mpholo-Mehlape

What does your company do?

Jane Mpholo Pty Ltd is a dynamic and visionary arts company rooted in the heart of the Free State, South Africa. Founded by award-winning theatre-maker and creative entrepreneur Jane Mpholo-Mehlape, the company is dedicated to using the power of theatre, film, and site-specific art as tools for social change, healing, and community empowerment. At its core, Jane Mpholo Pty Ltd is more than a creative enterprise — it is a hub for mentorship and job creation.

What is your biggest success?

My biggest achievement to date has been receiving funding from the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF) for a short documentary based on my life as a theatre practitioner using art to drive change. This is more than just a personal milestone—it marks the first time we’ve been able to create paying job opportunities for over 30 individuals simultaneously through one project. It is, by far, my largest and most ambitious production. This achievement is made even more meaningful by the recognition that came before it. Last year, I was honoured to be named “Outstanding Actor in Theatre” by the Department of Arts and Culture’s Cultural and Creative Industry (CCI) Awards, and selected as a finalist for the African Women Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum (AWIEF) in the Creative Industry category. Together, these moments remind me that every hurdle, every sacrifice, and every risk was worth it. We are not only making art—we are making impact. And we are finally being seen for it.

What has been your biggest hurdle?

The biggest hurdle has been building a sustainable creative company in a province where resources, funding, and support for the arts are limited. Being based in the Free State often means working twice as hard to access opportunities that are more readily available in major cities. There are times when I have to self-fund projects, rely on volunteers, and push through burnout—just to keep the vision alive. Convincing funders, partners, and even audiences that meaningful, professional work can come out of a small, often-overlooked community has been an ongoing challenge. The arts industry is full of challenges, but being in the FS adds to that. But through it all, I’ve learned that resilience is a muscle, and purpose is fuel. Every obstacle has made me more determined to create space, not only for myself but for other artists who deserve to be seen, heard, and paid for their craft. The struggle has shaped the strength of Jane Mpholo Pty Ltd—and it’s that same struggle that now drives our impact.