By Lulama kaSozathini
GQEBERHA — Nelson Mandela Bay is set to come alive with rhythm, creativity and cinematic brilliance as it hosts the inaugural Nelson Mandela Music Video Film Festival on 31 May 2025 at the Atheneum in Central, Gqeberha. This first-of-its-kind event in the province aims to celebrate the power of visual storytelling through music, while inspiring a new generation of creators.
An ambitious brainchild of local talent manager Sebenzile Zalabe, the festival promises to be a convergence point for seasoned music video directors, producers, cinematographers, and budding creatives from across the Eastern Cape. With the backing of the Nelson Mandela Bay Development Agency, MyBliss Technologies, and Sonwabo Audio Visuals, Zalabe’s Flying Loudcast Agency is steering the ship on what many hope will become an annual creative pilgrimage.
“Young people continue to grow fonder of the music industry,” Zalabe explained. “They imagine themselves on international stages. This festival is born from that dream and the need to equip them with real-world skills to harness the power of smartphones and social media to build their brands.”
The festival will feature hands-on workshops and masterclasses covering music video directing, editing, and visual effects. In addition to knowledge sharing, it will also celebrate excellence: a Music Video Award—selected by a panel of judges—will be handed to the best submission, complete with a cash prize.
Sinethemba Gayiza, the festival’s media relations officer, emphasized the importance of professionalism in the visual arts: “We want to empower local music video producers to attract private sector partners and explore links with the tourism industry. Music videos enjoy significant screen time—real estate that should be monetized and used to tell our stories.”
A particularly poignant aspect of the festival is its recognition of music videos as instruments of artistic activism. From Miriam Makeba’s “Beware, Verwoerd!” to Brenda Fassie’s “Black President”, South African artists have long used music to amplify resistance and identity. Today, that tradition continues with artists like Loyiso Gijana, whose track “Madoda Sabelani” urges men to stand up against gender-based violence.
“This is more than a festival,” Zalabe said. “It’s a platform for expression, a call to action, and a launchpad for careers. We’re targeting musicians, producers, record labels, and content creators—because when creators incorporate local music in their content, everyone wins.”
Beyond the screenings, the Mandela Bay Music Video Film Festival will be a space of engagement, networking, and growth. Music lovers and visual artists alike are urged to secure their spots and enjoy live performances from featured artists.
Festival Details:
Venue: Atheneum (Little Theatre), Gqeberha
Date: 31 May 2025
Tickets: R100 via Webtickets
Follow: Facebook – Mandela Bay Music Video Film Festival
Don’t miss out on what promises to be a visually and sonically rich celebration of local talent. Buy your ticket. Bring your passion. Shape the future of African storytelling.
