Encouraging women in the business of art

These women entrepreneurs, who themselves work in the artistic industries, have spearheaded the organisation out of a desire to empower, develop and promote women with arts-related commercial enterprises as viable contributors to the economy. Board members include Semoko, Khumalo, Bongi Dlomo, Nkhensani Nkosi and Sebenzile Mathebula.

With patrons Angie Makwetla, Yvonne Chaka Chaka and Adrienne Sichel backing this initiative, the non-profit organisation has its sights set on being the voice of professional women in the arts, entertainment and media industries. It will foster a pioneering and entrepreneurial spirit among members, helping them nurture sustainable businesses.

Creating access. Creating excellence!

Under its slogan, 'Creating Access. Creating Excellence!', it will foster communication among women arts entrepreneurs, make use of the creative expertise of its members, address social problems that are holding back progress and help young people develop careers in the arts.

"From various interactions and conversations with women in our sector, we believe this is a much-needed initiative," says Khumalo. "We know that by sharing information, by engaging thought leaders in our sector, we can only grow and advance our cause decidedly and keep each other lifted. We aim to revive the activist essence of all forward-thinking women."

Driven by the need to develop more independent female-headed business ventures in South Africa, it will be lobbying and engaging with the government, labour, communities and other stakeholders on issues that directly affect its members.

As a formalised structure representing businesswomen in the arts in national and statutory bodies, it seeks to influence business- and arts-related policy and legislation, while promoting projects benefiting women arts entrepreneurs.

For more information, email moc.liamg@stra.awbas.