“Their guidance played a pivotal role in shaping my career and deepening my understanding of lighting design within the performing arts sector.”

The road wasn’t easy for Nomvula as a young, Black woman in a space many men felt entitled to.

She narrates, “I have navigated a male-dominated technical environment in the early stages of my career, where there were very few Black female lighting technicians and designers. I have experienced workplace dynamics where female practitioners were at times undervalued or discouraged, particularly around feelings of the physical and technical demands of lighting work.”

These misconceptions did not discourage Nomvula, but challenged her to intentionally train a new and diverse generation of technical practitioners to create balanced demographics. Today, her products can be found at many cultural institutions, a legacy she’s deeply proud of.

She also focused on her personal, career and leadership growth, equipping herself for the changing cultural landscape, including the nature of work. “I have progressed through a full professional career growth within the organisation, advancing from Intern to Lighting Technician, Lighting Designer and later Head of Lighting. I have benefited from organisational support for continued professional development, with the institution funding my studies to strengthen my technical and leadership capabilities.”

Among Nomvula’s many highlights in her nearly three decades’ career was when she served as Assistant Lighting Designer under the mentorship of Stan Presler from the UK. This milestone was a result of a major international collaboration between The Market Theatre Foundation and Stockholm’s stadsteater for a production titled The Blacks, which brought together South African and Swedish artists.

“I played a key role in supporting the lighting design process, technical implementation and execution across venues. The production successfully toured internationally, with performances in Sweden and South Africa, providing valuable experience in adapting lighting designs to different theatre infrastructures and touring conditions,” says Nomvula.

What do people often misunderstand about her job?

“That it’s purely technical,” she replies.

The role, she clarifies, sits between artistic vision and technical execution. This is both a strategic and tactical position that translates bold creative concepts into high-quality productions, delivered on time and within the allocated budget.

Nomvula adds that a significant part of the job is about leadership, mentorship and accountability.

“Once a show opens, the job is done.”

But the job is far from being done for Nomvula Molepo. Not only is she looking forward to clocking 30 years at The Market, but she’s also excited for the Theatre’s crucial 50^th anniversary.

“Reaching the 50-year milestone of The Market Theatre Foundation is significant for me personally. I am so proud to still be contributing to the MTF’s legacy.”