A Little More
ABOUT US
We are the home of Arts Cultural Movement in Soweto.


ABOUT US
Established in 2013, Eyethu Lifestyle Centre was founded by Mandla Tshabalala.
As a premier art and entertainment venue, Eyethu is a cultural hub in Soweto - a cosmopolitan area that is home to more than 2.5 million people and is renowned for setting trends as well as its plethora of cultural treasures. The name “Eyethu” (which means “our own”) emanates from the historical background associated with the area in which the venue is situated in Mofolo, Soweto. Eyethu Cinema was the first black-owned cinema that opened in 1969. Through the years the cinema became a hub of culture and entertainment where the latest films were shown and where local and international live shows were shown. The cinema also became a springboard for then emerging stars who are now well-renowned artists such as Sipho “Hotstix” Mabuse and Ladysmith Black Mambazo.
OUR HISTORY
Founded in 1969, Eyethu Cinema is an iconic venue in the heart of Soweto, in Mofolo.
In addition to showcasing the latest local films, the venue, which was the first black owned cinema also served as a performance centre for the crème de la crème of black entertainment. Established at the height of segregation in South Africa, Eyethu Cinema had the likes of the “Father of Black Theatre” Gibson Kente and Ladysmith Black Mambazo launching their fledgling careers on its premises, while it also doubled as a cultural hub frequented by defiant international performers. International stars such as Percy Sledge, Brook Benton and Timmy Thomas graced the stage and entertained the masses while also lending their voices towards ending apartheid. In its heyday Eyethu was known to screen films that were later banned by the then Apartheid government.
OUR FACILITIES
• CONFERENCE FACILITY • OUTSIDE COVERED DECK • COURT YARD • MOBILE CUSTOMISED BAR • BRAAI FACILITY • KITCHEN FACILITY • STAGING FACILITY • SECURE PARKING

MEET THE TEAM
Our Founder

Mandla "Bra Mandla"
Tshabalala

Make your vision so clear that your fears become irrelevant.
Marketing Manager

Lerato "Lovers"
Tshabalala
Change the way you look at things and the things you look at will change.
Bar Manager

Patrick "Bhut Pat"
Mabuza
And so the adventure begins.
General Manager

Bongani "Bongs"
Nene
Charm begins with me.