Ama Voetsek, Reality

TOMY EVERYDAY

by Samora Chapman / 11.09.2015

Over the past year we’ve shot hundreds of street portraits in search of interesting, real South Africans wearing Tomy Takkies – the simple canvas shoes that were created in Zimbabwe 50 years ago. Tomys are often connected to childhood memories, to sports days and beach trips. Tomys are classless shoes. They’re worn by young, old, rich and poor and the basic design has remained unchanged for half a century.

The brand is evolving, with a new range of fly high tops, thicker soled shoes and funky prints hitting the market. But the original black and white Tomys will always be walking the Mzansi streets, for generations to come.

Here’s a selection of Samora Chapman’s Tomy Everyday snaps that never made it into the Mahala features. Stay tuned for highlights from our other photogs soon…

"You can be colourful without wearing colour!" – Mafa Khuzwayo

“You can be colourful without wearing colour!” – Mafa Khuzwayo, Entrepreneur

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“I come to the beach to think things through. Today I’ve come to accept that there’s only so much I can do… I have to let go of the rest.” – Lorraine Mbolekwa

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“Today was the first time I’ve busked in Durban. It was an incredible feeling.” – Qadasi (David Jenkins), maskandi musician

“I’m studying Architecture at Durban University of Technology. I’ve been at lectures all day. Now I’m rushing to catch a taxi home so I can get back to work. All the long hours will be worth it in the end!” – Andile Chemane

“I’m studying Architecture at Durban University of Technology. I’ve been at lectures all day. Now I’m rushing to catch a taxi home so I can get back to work. All the long hours will be worth it in the end!” – Andile Chemane, Architecture student

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“My family’s been in the circus for three generations. My favourite thing about being a clown is making kids smile.” – Benji Lorenzo, Clown

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“Myself and my three friends have started our own street-wear brand called LVMS. It’s pronounced ‘LAMBS’. Too many people out there just follow trends, which is why we’re working on a campaign called ‘Dare To Be Different’. Check us out on Facebook and Twirra (LVMS_X)!” – Lindtz Sokhulu, Entrepreneur

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“Eventually I got to a point in my life where I had to chase my dreams. With a huge leap of faith, (especially since I am a young single mom in South Africa), I have embarked on the adventure of becoming a full time artist – something I’d only previously indulged in as a midnight hobby. I’ve never been happier. If you believe in yourself and commit to doing what you love, wholeheartedly, with all that you have, the universe will support you. Fortune favours the brave!” – Katharine Kali, Fine Artist

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“Since the SONA (State Of The Nation Address) there’s been a lot of drama and discussion about where our country is at. But personally I’m more interested in lifestyle than politics – culture, music, events… you know, the good life!” – Tina Shabalala, Journalism student

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“People need to be educated about their leaders and about politics so that the individuals we elect to represent us will really have our best interests at heart.” – Phindile Nala, B.Admin student

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Samora: “Hi, I love your style… can I take your picture?” Thando Mnguni: “No, I’m too shy!” And then she posed like a pro…

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Samora: “Who’s your style icon?” Andile Chemane: “I don’t have one. I trust myself.”

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“I’m studying to be a teacher. Because children are the future.” – Nicor Mfaniso, Education student

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“I’ve always wanted to be unique and to start my own brand. I recently started a street fashion company with my three best friends, so I guess my dream is coming true.” – Ayanda Khumalo, Graphic Design student

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“These are my brand new Tomys… but I have some really old ones as well, which I still wear even though they are full of holes! I’m not ashamed of them, they’re just so comfy.” – Suki Muller, Chef

“I walk to work every morning from Umbilo to Florida Road (7kms). You’d be surprised to know that it’s actually quicker than taking the bus! There’s no traffic problems if you walk. I do want to get a driver’s licence one day. But for now, I’m a car guard.” Eric Mthembu, Car Guard

“I walk to work every morning from Umbilo to Florida Road (7kms). You’d be surprised to know that it’s actually quicker than taking the bus! There’s no traffic problems if you walk. I do want to get a driver’s licence one day. But for now, I’m a car guard.” – Eric Mthembu, Car Guard

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“Me and my friends have this saying, it goes – Do something that scares you every day!” – Sabelo Khuzwayo, Entrepreneur

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*Images © Tomy Takkies

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