Mark Jeneker's journey to becoming an award-winning art teacher

Two major honours in just weeks have cemented Portland Primary art teacher Mark Jeneker as one of the Western Cape’s most inspiring figures. 

At the end of last month, he was named first runner-up for best art teacher in the Western Cape by the Western Cape Education Department. Then, a fortnight ago, he was crowned among South Africa’s Most Influential Men, an accolade awarded by Big M Productions.

Out of nearly 100 nominees, many of them doctors, academics, and prominent professionals, only 38 men received the honour. For Mr Jeneker, these awards are more than trophies. They represent a life reclaimed.

“I felt very excited to win these awards. They affirm what I do. I never thought that someone with my past would ever win an award.”

At 59, Mr Jeneker stands as a symbol of transformation. A father of one, he grew up in Hanover Park and became deeply entangled in gangsterism. He sold drugs, committed robberies, and eventually served five years in prison. His life spiraled, and he admits there was a time when he saw no future beyond the streets. Everything changed in 2008, when he walked away from gangsterism. 

He credits this turning point to his faith and to the individuals who took a chance on him.

“God transformed me to be the person I am today,” he said.

“I must give credit to the principal of Yellowwood Primary. He opened his doors for me after I told him about my dark past.”

With no formal training in art, Mr  Jeneker taught himself the craft, eventually offering it as an extra-mural activity. Over time, his natural talent and passion for mentorship began to shine. His efforts soon drew attention, leading to a string of recognitions. In 2016, he was awarded a cultural award in the same year he received the Lead SA Hero award, and in 2022, he was again awarded the cultural award. 

He insists the recognition stems not only from skill, but from the depth of his story.

“I feel that every award I am nominated for, and every award I win, is because of my journey and the work that I do. My story develops an interest.” At Portland Primary, Mr Jeneker’s impact is unmistakable. One of his pupils, a ten-year-old girl, recently earned third place nationally for her artwork, a feat achieved just three months ago.

“What I’ve seen is that when children do art and do well in it, their academics improve because art boosts their self-esteem,” he said.

Mr Jeneker also hosts exhibitions where he sells his pupils ’ art, with the profits returning directly to the children.

“I’m creating a platform for their art to be seen by the world,” he said.

In 2017, he founded the Mark Jeneker Foundation, which focuses on advancing art in the community. Although the organisation is strong, he said, it continually needs support from local businesses to expand its reach.

His dream? A dedicated art building in Mitchells Plain, an official studio where young artists can grow, learn, and feel seen. 

“What legacy do I want to leave? I want to create positive role models in Mitchells Plain,” he said. “If your child is busy with something positive, please stand behind them. That support means the world.”

Asked to describe himself, Mr Jeneker said: “An angel sent from God, a positive, loving, patient person.”