On 20 June, the flame of Imbawula was officially lit at our exclusive media launch held at Artistry in Sandton. The evening brought together a vibrant mix of media houses, bloggers, influencers, and journalists for an intimate preview of the Imbawula Music Festival, setting the tone for what promises to be a powerful celebration of music, identity, and purpose.
Rooted in rich South African tradition, Imbawula goes beyond the stage, it’s a gathering of voices, rhythms, and purpose. Drawing inspiration from the iconic coal heater that once brought warmth and connection to township homes, Imbawula now symbolizes a gathering place where culture, rhythm, and social consciousness converge.
At the heart of our commitment is a bold and urgent message: Stop Gender-Based Violence. The festival will serve as a platform to honour powerful South African women who are shaping the nation and to amplify the call for action against GBV. Through festival segments, school outreach, and partnerships with activists, Imbawula is igniting more than entertainment, it’s sparking meaningful change.
As we count down to the main event, the media launch marked the beginning of a night of warmth, reflection, and the first sparks of a movement that promises to inspire, empower, and uplift.
Music With A Purpose
The evening featured a compelling panel discussion on music as a tool for storytelling and healing. One of the most moving contributions came from Joanne Soojay, who reminded us that “music has the power to unite, to heal, and to transform.” Her heartfelt message on creating safe spaces and tackling gender-based violence underscored the festival’s mission of social impact and collective healing.
The panel also included powerful voices such as Bholoja, the Eswatini-born musician known for pioneering Swazi Soul and weaving rich social commentary into his work; Saul Madiope, a jazz prodigy blending electronic sounds with ancestral wisdom; and Khanyo Maphumulo, acclaimed vocalist best known for her performance in Sarafina! and a fearless GBV activist, who will also perform a powerful piece on gender-based violence during the main festival.
The night concluded with live teaser performances by both rising stars and iconic artists from the upcoming festival lineup, giving guests a taste of the electric, emotionally charged energy still to come.
From powerful conversations to soul-stirring music, the media launch embodied the essence of Imbawula — a fire that gathers us, connects us, and moves us forward.
Some Images from our Media Launch
