The Botho Heritage International Festival will celebrate 30 years of democracy with a vibrant showcase of African culture in KwaZulu-Natal.
The 11th annual festival is set to return bigger and better than ever. This year’s festival will take place from September 24 to 28, spanning three vibrant chapters in Newcastle, Ilembe and Ethekwini, with the main celebration hosted at the Wushwini Pan African Centre in KwaNgcolosi, Durban
Speaking to TshisaLIVE, playwright Jeremy Pooe said since its inception in 2013 the festival has embodied the spirit of ubuntu, capturing the essence of humanity and community.
“'Botho' is a Sesotho word reflecting the interconnectedness of the African continent and its people, celebrating not only South African heritage but the shared cultural legacy of the nations that stood together in times of struggle and continue to advocate for democracy and freedom today,” he said.
“A celebration of art and culture, the annual festival promises a rich tapestry of artistic expression, including theatre, crafts, visual arts, fashion, poetry, literature, storytelling, workshops, seminars, film and music.
“It will transform the scenic mountains of KwaNgcolosi into a bustling hub of creativity and cultural exchange, featuring artists from diverse backgrounds who will share their talents in a joyous celebration of African democracy and heritage.
“Empowering youth through rural and cultural tourism this year, the festival will also emphasise the potential of rural and cultural tourism as a sustainable business model for youth.”
Pooe said through their youth seminar the festival will explore how young people can leverage their creative skills and talents to tap into the opportunities presented by the INK Tourism route, showcasing tourism as an exciting and viable career path.
Playwright Jerry Pooe to host heritage festival in celebration of 30 years of democracy
Image: Supplied
The Botho Heritage International Festival will celebrate 30 years of democracy with a vibrant showcase of African culture in KwaZulu-Natal.
The 11th annual festival is set to return bigger and better than ever. This year’s festival will take place from September 24 to 28, spanning three vibrant chapters in Newcastle, Ilembe and Ethekwini, with the main celebration hosted at the Wushwini Pan African Centre in KwaNgcolosi, Durban
Speaking to TshisaLIVE, playwright Jeremy Pooe said since its inception in 2013 the festival has embodied the spirit of ubuntu, capturing the essence of humanity and community.
“'Botho' is a Sesotho word reflecting the interconnectedness of the African continent and its people, celebrating not only South African heritage but the shared cultural legacy of the nations that stood together in times of struggle and continue to advocate for democracy and freedom today,” he said.
“A celebration of art and culture, the annual festival promises a rich tapestry of artistic expression, including theatre, crafts, visual arts, fashion, poetry, literature, storytelling, workshops, seminars, film and music.
“It will transform the scenic mountains of KwaNgcolosi into a bustling hub of creativity and cultural exchange, featuring artists from diverse backgrounds who will share their talents in a joyous celebration of African democracy and heritage.
“Empowering youth through rural and cultural tourism this year, the festival will also emphasise the potential of rural and cultural tourism as a sustainable business model for youth.”
Pooe said through their youth seminar the festival will explore how young people can leverage their creative skills and talents to tap into the opportunities presented by the INK Tourism route, showcasing tourism as an exciting and viable career path.
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