In a powerful celebration of creativity, resilience, and entrepreneurship, the Debut Programme, funded by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC), has reached a significant milestone in its national rollout. At the heart of this achievement was the successful delivery of the pitch Den, which recently brought together more than 200 emerging creative entrepreneurs from all nine provinces.
Designed to equip young creatives with the skills, knowledge, and funding required to build sustainable businesses, the Debut Programme continues to make a meaningful impact on South Africa’s creative economy.
The Hlanganisa Pitch Den provided participants with a platform to present their business ideas through a four-minute pitch followed by a three-minute Q&A session. This format tested not only their clarity and confidence but also their commercial insight—essential traits for navigating today’s creative sector.
“The Pitch Den is a prime example of how business-minded thinking and innovation can empower artists to build sustainable futures,” said Mr Moleleki Ledimo, Director of Arts & Youth Development at DSAC. “We are proud to work alongside BASA to strengthen the foundations of South Africa’s creative sector.”
The impact of the Pitch Den was substantial, with catalytic funding awarded to support the top promising creative businesses. In addition, 87% of participants developed actionable marketing strategies, 83% refined their brand identities for improved market visibility, and 70% forged new partnerships, demonstrating how the programme is driving real-world impact and equipping participants with the tools they need to succeed.
For many creatives, the experience was transformational, both personally and professionally.
“Before this programme, I only saw myself as an artist,” said Siphelele Mkhabela from Mpumalanga. “Now, I understand that my work is also a business. I have a plan to grow my craft and make a meaningful impact in my community.”
Ntando Chithambo from Gauteng added, “This journey pushed me beyond what I thought I was capable of. Pitching used to scare me. Now I do it with purpose. I’ve gained the tools to build something that lasts.”
These stories reflect the heart of the Debut Programme: transforming creativity into opportunity and passion into progress.
“Every pitch we witnessed was a mirror of the bold, entrepreneurial spirit fueling South Africa’s rising creative voices, proof that the future of the arts is innovative, fearless, and already in motion,” said BASA’s Programmes Manager. “The Debut Programme continues to unlock creative potential and sow the seeds for long-term sustainability.”
As the Hlanganisa Phase concludes, the Top 100 participants now move forward to the Leadership and Coaching Phase from May to July 2025. This will be followed by the virtual Hlanganisa Graduation at the end of July, and the Catalyst Phase from August to October 2025. During the Catalyst Phase, the Top 50 participants will receive additional funding, tailored mentorship, and an in-person graduation ceremony.
In a country where the arts are often underfunded despite immense talent, the Debut Programme shines as a beacon of hope and impact. By equipping young creatives with essential tools and networks, BASA and DSAC are not only fostering individual growth but actively shaping the future of South Africa’s creative economy.
About the Debut Programme
Launched in 2017, the Debut Programme equips young creatives with the tools, training, and mentorship they need to turn their ideas into impactful businesses. Through BASA’s ongoing support, the programme has already empowered 975 young creatives across South Africa, helping them build sustainable futures within the creative economy.
As these young entrepreneurs continue to develop their ventures, BASA remains committed to amplifying both the power of art in business and the business of art.
For more information about the Debut Programme, visit https://basa.co.za/programmes/the-debut-programme
