Name/burner name: Zimkita Menziwa Ntywankile, but those who know me call me Zeem. I’m based in Khayelitsha, Makhaza, and I’m the founder of Zeem Doller School of Arts.

For how long have you been part of AfrikaBurn? I’d like to share my story as a first-time “virgin burner” at AfrikaBurn 2024. To be honest, I knew nothing about the event, but to my surprise, many people around me had been attending for years!
Secondly, if it wasn’t for a friend of mine who shared a vacancy for an Arts Admin internship late in 2023, I might never have been involved. I applied, got the job, and began interning at AfrikaBurn. This turned out to be one of the most beautiful experiences of my life. Learning about and hearing stories from previous events was amazing, and I’ll be forever grateful for that opportunity.

What made you want to join the community? What really made me want to attend was the excitement my colleagues shared about their past experiences. I started talking about it with others and was surprised that many already knew about AfrikaBurn. Some even told me it wasn’t a place for someone like me—someone who goes to church and is married. 🤔🤔 But I was determined to experience it for myself.
I wanted to participate at the main event and help with the preparations. I also wanted my students to experience it with me, so I wouldn’t be there alone! 😂😂

What is your role within the community? Chillaz coordinator and volunteers crew.

What do you love about AfrikaBurn?
In my entire life, I’ve never seen so many free-spirited people in one place.
The peace I found there was unmatched. I wish I had brought my whole family—my husband and my two daughters.
Everything is shared! There’s so much love and generosity. ♥♥♥

Fun Facts?!
I made a lot of international and local friends, many of whom I’m still in touch with.
Walking long distances became the norm! 😭🤣
The burn nights were unforgettable!

Stay tuned for more amazing stories from our volunteers!