The Debut Programme, an inspiring initiative from the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture (DSAC) in collaboration with Business and Arts South Africa (BASA), proudly presents the Hlanganisa Pitch Den—a game-changing platform designed to uplift South Africa’s emerging creative entrepreneurs.
From the 23rd to the 30th of September 2024, 200 talented individuals took the stage to pitch their innovative business ideas, refined over three months of intensive training. The Hlanganisa Pitch Den served as a dynamic space where participants could present, refine, and elevate their ideas in front of leading industry experts and influential decision-makers. Over the week, these budding entrepreneurs faced a thrilling challenge: a four-minute pitch, followed by a three-minute Q&A session with a distinguished panel of judges. The judges who participated are Olwethu Twalo is a multifaceted leader, Lerato Matolodi a Johannesburg-based dancer, choreographer and poet,Tshepiso Poho is a Chartered Accountant and Creative Director.
Zanele Madiba, BASA Programmes Manager, captured the essence of the event, saying:
The Hlanganisa Pitch Den is the pinnacle of the participants’ three months of hard work, offering a platform where emerging creative entrepreneurs can pitch ideas that not only impress but inspire real change. It’s a moment for bold, innovative ventures to shine.”
Zanele Madiba, BASA Programmes Manager,
But the event was much more than just pitching. The participants sharpened vital business skills and developed strategic insights into marketing, creative development, and financial management. Through multimedia presentations and interactive demos, they brought their ideas to life, making the pitch den an exciting, hands-on experience that encouraged confidence and creativity in equal measure.
The stakes were high, as those with the most outstanding pitches secured launch grants and earned their place in the prestigious Catalyst Phase—the final stage of the Debut Programme. Here, they’ll receive even more support to transform their ideas into thriving businesses. As Madiba explains:
The most outstanding pitches will secure launch grants and advance to the Catalyst Phase, where they will receive further support to turn their ideas into thriving enterprises.“
The Hlanganisa Pitch Den wasn’t just a milestone for these entrepreneurs; it was a turning point. It marked the start of a journey towards personal success, community impact, and, ultimately, the reshaping of South Africa’s creative and economic landscape. This wasn’t just about pitching—it was about empowering the next generation of creative leaders.
Over 200 Emerging Creatives Shortlisted for the Debut Programme
Ashraf Johaardien, CEO of BASA, highlighted the programme’s growing influence:
The Debut Programme stands out for its commitment to providing business and entrepreneurial skills to aspiring creatives in all nine provinces of South Africa. This dedication to inclusivity ensures that talented individuals from all corners of the country have the opportunity to thrive in the creative economy.”
Ashraf Johaardien, CEO of BASA, speaks to the audience about the impact of The Debut Programme
Out of this impressive pool of applicants, 450 creatives from rural and peri-urban areas have been selected to participate in the Kickstarter Training phase. This phase is essential for equipping them with the entrepreneurial tools they need to launch, build, and sustain their creative ventures.
One of the programme’s key strengths is its focus on inclusivity. Even those who aren’t selected to move forward will still benefit from ongoing workshops and mentorship sessions. This approach ensures that everyone has access to valuable support and skill development from BASA and the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture
For more information about the Debut Programme, visit click the below:Debut Programme page , Debut Programme Microsite
