Developing young artists
The South African Arts Development Programme (SAADP) and the Mzansi Arts and Heritage Festival (MAHEFE) will create a platform for local artists to learn and grow.
THE new South African Arts & Development Association (SAADA), a non-profit organisation, will identify and nurture 1 000 budding artists who are set to benefit from the launch of up-and-coming local talent in various creative fields. SAADA was launched this March with the purpose of providing training, mentoring and development to young artists to ensure the sustainability of careers in the arts, an improvement in productivity and the effectiveness of artists in the industry.
The organisation is driven by ‘Kwaito King’, Arthur Mafokate, in partnership with the National Lottery Distribution Fund and Nampak Bevcan’s brand, CAN DO!.
“We are creating a movement to reach the youth through music, entertainment and popular culture by supporting up-and-coming local talent,” said Alexandra Bouwer, marketing manager for CAN DO!. Arthur Mafokate, SAADA chairman, established music producer and celebrated ‘King of Kwaito’, says SAADA will give beneficiaries a platform on which to express their talents and enhance their business acumen. “A lack of knowledge in the entertainment industry often leads to exploitation, mismanagement of funds and limited pubic support,” said Mafokate. “Through this initiative we will be equipping promising artists with the necessary tools needed to reach their potential in the industry.”
The initiative will also attract music heavyweights including Oskido, Robbie Malinga, Kelly Khumalo, Cassper Nyovest, Ishmael, Dr Malinga and more, who will share their knowledge and experiences with the beneficiaries. SAADA will host two flagship projects: the South African Arts Development Programme (SAADP) and the Mzansi Arts and Heritage Festival (MAHEFE), set to take place in early October.
“SAADP consists of a 12-month programme that includes workshops, mentorship, business development and a platform to implement and promote their craft,” explained Mafokate. “The SAADP will also be supported by MAHEFE, an annual arts festival focused on the development of young artists by creating a platform for the beneficiaries to share the stage with international and local artists.”
The audition process to identify the 1 000 beneficiaries is set to kick off in Gauteng at the end of March, followed by 12 additional auditions to be held across the country. For more information about SAADA, contact 011 805 7847 or visit the website, www.saada.org.za.
