In post-colonial South Africa, some may argue that modern/western cultural influences have created challenges in the originality and authenticity of African identity. In facing these challenges, it is important to ask ourselves what being African looks like in the modern 21st century.
Bloemfontein-based artist Sizakele Mdi answers that question with their project entitled ‘Being African in the 21st Century’. This project aims to provide an artistic platform to facilitate powerful dialogues and interactions within its local communities. The project will address the importance of the arts in South Africa whilst advocating for the well-being of arts consumers within local communities.
10 community group leaders from Qwaqwa, Springfontein, Thaba Nchu, Botshabelo, and Bloemfontein were selected, with an additional 6 group members assigned to them. Each group was led by qualified art practitioners who educated and trained the groups in facilitating community forums and theatre performances. The facilitated forums were an open dialogue discussion on Africanism in the 21st century. Stage theatre performances were then performed by the art practitioners, consisting of short songs and dances that symbolise the look and feel of a modern Africa.
The ‘Being African in the 21st Century’ project serves as a theatrical investigation of pre- and post-colonialism that identifies personal, political, and social oppressions faced by these local communities. Sizakele writes, “Sharing these findings within a community arts-based dialogue will further influence society’s engagement with protecting Africanism”.
With the financial assistance of the National Arts Council, the ‘Being African in the 21st Century’ project has made a huge impact on its participants and within the local communities. A sense of African pride and individuality was created amongst those who participated through the promotion of self-awareness and mental well-being. Several career and skill development opportunities were provided for the leaders and members of the Qwaqwa, Springfontein, Thaba Nchu, Botshabelo, and Bloemfontein local communities.
The art practitioners who facilitated the forums and stage performances were also able to further their career experience and collaborate with other artists, building a strong network that will allow for the sustainability of their involvement in the arts. A total of 47 job opportunities were created through the implementation of the project.
The National Arts Council is pleased to be a part of valuable collaborations such as this and looks forward to the transformative future that the Presidential Employment Stimulus Program will provide.
