Events & Sponsorships

Breakfast with BASA and Paul Mashatile

22 July, 2011

On Friday 22 July, Business and Arts South Africa (BASA) arranged a breakfast to recognise the businesses that contribute to the development of the arts in South Africa. The event was arranged by BASA and hosted at Standard Bank.

A group of 25 business heads and delegates from the Department of Arts and Culture were in attendance. 

“Etana has always had great relations with BASA,” mentions Etana brand manager Josie Holley. “We extended this through becoming a partner in BASA’s mentorship programme. Today representatives from Standard Bank, MNET, Rand Merchant Bank and Norton Rose all joined us. This provided a great opportunity to network with people within other industries and listen to Minister of Arts and Culture Paul Mashatile.”

Mashatile spoke about his dedication in planning and evaluating aspects of his department before seeking means of financial support. He believes that the arts do have the potential to make a difference and solve issues relating to unemployment and poverty. However, for this to work and be implemented successfully, cabinet will need to make a concerted effort to support these campaigns and ensure that they are rolled out successfully. 

“Another interesting topic which Mashatile spoke about was targeting the youth and his aim of developing an appreciation for arts and culture within schools. Creativity amongst children is an important aspect that needs to be preserved to ensure the traditions and heritages of South African cultures is not forgotten,” says Josie.

The minister spoke about the task teams that have been established to drive reform and change in the sector. BASA’s Michelle Constant, a passionate appreciator and protector of the arts, heads up of one of these task teams. Known as “The Art Bank”, this particular team focuses on creating hubs of creativity in South Africa to encourage people to visit the country.

Mashatile plans to use national and government buildings as art galleries as he sees this as a way of promoting local artists. The minister also wants to showcase what talent we have in South Africa by taking these works to international embassies.

“This morning’s event enhanced Etana’s commitement to its partnership with BASA and the excitement of the possibilities that lie ahead,” concluded Josie.