Van Damn is the trade name of Jezifous Jang. He was born in 1976 in Mabvuku where he did his primary and secondary education. After school he read a newspaper which had the names of the likes of the late John Takawira, Chikumbirike and many more. He went to Chapungu where he met Gerald Takawira, the son of the late John. He spoke to him and then started to wash, polish and sell his art. Gerald taught him how to carve. Van Damn still works with Gerald although he does his own sculptures as well.