10/10/2026
WHEN WILL ARTISTS AND CREATIVES BE HEARD? A CALL FOR ACCOUNTABILITY.
It is deeply disappointing to see the challenges faced by organisations working to empower graduates, create employment, develop talent, and contribute to the creative economy.
My experience with the Gauteng Department of Sport, Arts, Culture and Recreation raises concerns about communication and transparency. You submit proposals, send emails, and make phone calls seeking feedback, yet receive no response.
This is now the second annual cycle in which I have applied through a call for proposals without receiving a regret letter, an outcome, or meaningful feedback.
How are organisations expected to grow and create opportunities for young people when they cannot even get answers about their applications?
It is particularly discouraging when emerging organisations working at grassroots level struggle to access support, while others appear to receive opportunities. Every organisation deserves fair consideration, transparent processes, and equal treatment.
We are not asking for favours. We are asking for fairness, accountability, and communication.
The arts and creative industries have enormous potential to address unemployment, empower graduates, preserve our heritage, and develop the next generation of talent. However, this potential cannot be realised if organisations committed to this work are continually left waiting for answers.
My appeal to the Department is simple: communicate with applicants, provide feedback, clarify funding outcomes, and ensure that emerging organisations are not overlooked.
Behind every proposal are young people, talented creatives, and communities hoping for a better future.
Our artists deserve opportunities. Our graduates deserve a chance. Our communities deserve to be heard.
Send a message to learn more
