The Debut Programme, an initiative by Business and Arts South Africa (BASA), continues to nurture the next generation of creative entrepreneurs through its Catalyst Phase, a stage designed to equip emerging artists with mentorship, business acumen, and the tools to scale their creative ventures.
In this phase, the Debut Programme introduces a remarkable group of mentors whose expertise spans diverse creative disciplines, from visual arts and performance to film, literature, and music. These leaders exemplify the fusion of artistry, innovation, and enterprise, guiding participants to amplify their impact and sustainability within South Africa’s dynamic creative economy.
Nqobile Sipamla, is a dynamic creative practitioner, educator, and founder of SirenzQ (Pty) Ltd, a company dedicated to celebrating South African languages, culture, and identity through interactive, community-driven content. A graduate of the National School of the Arts and AFDA Film School, Nqobile has collaborated with BASA, Conté Magazine, and Jozihub, while also teaching at AFDA and Movietech Film & Television School. Her work bridges storytelling, education, and social development to inspire positive transformation.
Amogelang Pila Ditlhale, is a multidisciplinary artist and cultural producer exploring material culture, storytelling, and Afrocentric aesthetics through visual arts, craft, and mixed media. With over eight years in the creative industry, she has led initiatives such as the Healer of the World Female Arts Programme and Made4You Artist Residency, advancing access, dialogue, and creative agency within communities.
Athi Petela, Founder and Creative Director of Salt & Sand Creative and President of Women in Film and Television (WIFT) South Africa, is a filmmaker and cultural architect shaping Africa’s creative narrative. Her multidisciplinary production house bridges film, television, and brand storytelling, while her advocacy work drives access, equality, and mentorship across the continent’s screen industries.
Mandla Mlangeni , award-winning trumpeter, composer, and 2019 Standard Bank Young Artist for Jazz, uses music as a bridge between artistry and social impact. Leading ensembles such as the Amandla Freedom Ensemble and Tune Recreation Committee, he continues to inspire emerging creatives through his mentorship and academic engagement with Wits University’s Cultural Policy and Management programme.
Modise Sekgothe, poet, performer, and 2025 Standard Bank Young Artist for Poetry, has spent over a decade exploring the intersections of poetry, performance, and philosophy. His work challenges conventions through the power of words, while his mentorship cultivates depth, collaboration, and sustainability among emerging literary artists.
Siwa Mgoboza , is an artist, curator, and cultural practitioner whose practice connects contemporary art, community engagement, and leadership. Exhibiting across South Africa, Europe, and North America, Siwa champions inclusion and critical thinking in creative ecosystems, helping artists refine their visual language and develop resilient, future-focused practices.
Together, these mentors embody the vision of the Catalyst Phase, a commitment to guiding creativity into sustainable enterprise, fostering innovation, and shaping a vibrant, inclusive creative economy.
The Debut Programme is made possible by the generous support of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture.
