AZANIAN ARTS UNIONStrengthening Leadership, Advancing Artistic Development and Expanding Global ReachA Special Address on the BTH Talk Show with Emmanuel Makate | Beyond the HorizonThe Azanian Arts Union (AAU) is entering an important phase of organisational growth, artistic development and strategic direction. As the Union continues to bring together artists, poets, writers and other creative voices, its focus remains on building a strong institution that can nurture talent, encourage collaboration and create opportunities for Azanian artists to reach audiences beyond their immediate communities.This is more than a period of welcoming new members. It is a time to strengthen leadership, clarify responsibilities, expand artistic participation and establish a foundation for the Union’s long-term ambitions.The vision is clear: to build an organised, inclusive and forward-looking artistic community that honours its roots while embracing opportunities beyond geographical boundaries.A Developing Leadership StructureAs the Union grows, its leadership structure plays an important role in guiding its activities, supporting members and advancing its mission.The current leadership framework identifies Emmanuel P. Makate as President and Founder, with Dineo Malau serving as Acting President. In the Deputy Presidency, Oyisa Nikani is the incumbent Deputy President, while Owami Nkosi serves as Acting Deputy President.The Executive Office includes Keabetswe Tau as Chief Operations Officer, Tshireletso Petlane as Global Secretary General, Lerato Lechalaba as Global Speaker, and Boniwe Letsitsi as National Coordinator. Kamohelo Menyatso has been identified for the position of Global Coordinator, subject to board votes and approval.At the regional level, Manthuseng Nkone serves as Regional Chairperson of the Founding Branch.The Creative and Marketing Directorate is led by Emmanuel Makate as Creative Director, supported by Stephanie Delanke as Assistant to the Creative Director, while Owami Nkosi also serves as Marketing Director. The communications function is represented by PR Communications Managers Karabo Mthombeni and Mbalenhle Mroqo.These responsibilities reflect the different areas of work required to build a functioning creative organisation, from operations and communication to artistic direction, marketing and regional coordination.As the Union continues to develop, effective coordination, transparent communication and clearly defined responsibilities will be essential to ensuring that leadership translates into meaningful work for its members.Growth Through Membership and CollaborationAn artistic union becomes stronger when more voices find a place within it. The addition of members from different towns broadens the Union’s reach and creates opportunities for artists to learn from one another, share their work and participate in collective initiatives.Among the welcome developments is the joining of Lilly and Laiah Thobejane to the Azanian Arts Union.Their arrival represents the wider importance of creating spaces where young people can participate in artistic and cultural activities, develop their creative confidence and become part of a community that values their contributions.For the Union, membership should mean more than having a name on a list. It should provide an opportunity to participate, collaborate, develop skills and contribute to a shared vision.The long-term objective is to build a community in which members from different places and backgrounds can work together while retaining the individuality of their artistic voices.Advancing the Artistic Direction of the UnionThe Azanian Arts Union is committed to supporting artistic expression across creative disciplines, including poetry, spoken word, literature, storytelling and other forms of cultural expression.Its artistic direction must create opportunities for both established and emerging voices, with particular attention to young creatives who need platforms through which their ideas and talents can be recognised.One initiative supporting this vision is the Africa’s Voices Poetry Series. The proposed series will provide a platform for up to 30 poets, with spoken-word contributions limited to two minutes each and a focus on the rights of women and children.Through poetry, participants will be able to explore social issues, communicate important messages and contribute to conversations that extend beyond the artistic community.The initiative also reflects the Union’s broader understanding of art: creativity is not only a form of personal expression but can also encourage awareness, stimulate thought and give visibility to issues affecting society.Alongside these artistic initiatives, the Union recognises the importance of encouraging Grade 12 learners as they prepare for their final examinations. Supporting young people during this period reflects a commitment to their development beyond the arts alone.The Union’s artistic direction ...
Mostra di più
Mostra meno
15 min
Oct 25 202615 min
15 min
Oct 13 202615 min
Oct 5 202615 min
19 min
Sep 18 202631 min
15 min