Thami AkaMbongo Manzana: The Key to True Leadership in the Cultural & Creative Industries.

Dear Fellow Artists and Practitioners in South Africa’s Cultural and Creative Industries,

Our sector is in a constant state of evolution. We find ourselves in a pivotal moment where the need for true leadership has never been greater.

Many of us aspire to lead, whether within our creative spaces, government institutions, or the broader society.

But the question remains: Are we truly equipped to lead? Are we investing enough in understanding the legislative frameworks, policies, and systems that govern the very spaces we wish to influence?

Knowledge as the Foundation of Leadership

It is not enough to be a follower, an observer, or a critic. The reality is, we have too many followers and too few real leaders with tangible knowledge in our industry. Leadership is not just about having a platform or a voice; it’s about possessing the depth of understanding required to make meaningful changes. The power to challenge, advocate, and shape the future of our industry begins with knowledge — understanding the laws, policies, and systems that influence our work.

Familiarizing ourselves with Legislative Structures

If we want to challenge institutions like the National Arts Council (NAC) or the National Film and Video Foundation (NFVF), it’s critical that we start by understanding the very acts that govern them. The NAC Act, the NFVF Act, the Public Finance Management Act—these are not just documents for bureaucrats. They are blueprints of how our institutions function, and they hold the key to accountability.

Take, for example, the Revised White Paper on Arts, Culture, and Heritage. How many of us have truly studied this document, which is meant to guide the future of our sector? Similarly, the Dance and Theatre Policy isn’t just a policy for dancers and actors—it’s a framework for those of us who want to improve the conditions of the performing arts sector as a whole.

The Copyright Amendment Bill and Performers Protection Bill Debate

Currently, there is a heated debate surrounding the Copyright Amendment Bill and the Performers Protection Bill. Our industry is divided, with some advocating for the changes and others opposing them. But how many of us have taken the time to actually read these documents? How many of us are forming opinions based on our own understanding rather than following the rhetoric of others?

Instead of blindly aligning ourselves with popular figures, we should empower ourselves with knowledge. Read the documents. Understand the implications. Only then can we engage in meaningful debate and contribute to shaping the future of our industry.

Leading in Government and Institutional Roles

There has been a growing call for practitioners from our sector to take on leadership roles within government. We want Ministers and MECs who understand our industry. We want to be part of the Parliament Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts & Culture. We want seats on the boards and councils of state-funded institutions. But are we ready for these roles? Do we understand the complexities of governance, the intricacies of public finance, and the responsibilities that come with such positions?

Being a leader means being prepared. It means not only understanding the artistic side of things but also the legislative, financial, and administrative aspects. If we are to take on these roles, we must equip ourselves with the necessary knowledge and skills.

The Urgency of Self-Empowerment

The truth is, no one is holding us back except ourselves. Too often, we become bitter, envious of those who are progressing by furthering their knowledge. But bitterness is wasted energy. Instead of resenting others, we should focus on empowering ourselves. Invest time in studying, researching, and seeking out knowledge. Be in competition with yourself, not others. Strive to be better than you were yesterday.

Are We Ready to Lead?

We have so many organizations and movements across the country. There is no shortage of passion and dedication. But are we truly equipping ourselves to lead? The real question we must ask ourselves is: Are we ready to lead the way?

Leadership in our sector is not just about being an artist; it’s about being an informed, educated, and strategic thinker. It’s about understanding the system well enough to change it. If we truly want to make a difference, it’s time to normalize reading and understanding the legislative frameworks that shape our industry. It’s time to stop following and start leading.

Good luck. The future is in our hands, but only if you are willing to equip yourself with the knowledge to shape it.

Sincerely,

A Fellow Artist in the Cultural and Creative Industries

Thami AkaMbongo Manzana
thami@akambongo.co.za
AkaMbongo Foundation Pty Ltd
http://www.akambongo.co.za

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Thami AkaMbongo Manzana writes on his personal capacity.