SA: Basadi in Music Awards hold mental wellness workshop

Held in partnership with the Southern African Music Rights Organisation (SAMRO), the Basadi in Music Awards Mental Wellness and Safe Spaces Workshop was created as a response to the mental health crisis faced by individuals in their respective workspaces, addressing social ills such as body shaming, harassment, bullying and competitiveness among others.

The event held today at Joburg Theatre will focus on the music, entertainment industry and corporate landscape, guided by qualified psychology practitioners. It also offers a welcoming inclusive environment where individuals can share their experiences and express themselves without fear of judgement, discrimination or harm.

The event will consist of a panel featuring artists such as the legendary Abigail Kubeka, Kholeka, Buhlebendalo, Kamo Matsoso, record label co-owner and artist manager Tholsi Pillay and wellness expect Onkgopotse Khumalo from The Pocket Couch.

Audiences can also look forward to performances by Lioness and Namakau Star, with the event closing off with a practical activity led by occupational therapist Mpho Ramano.

Basadi in Music Awards founder Hloni Modise stressed that “healing is not merely a separate endeavour but an integral and pivotal part of our collective celebration.”

“The hardest part about mental health and the cracks found in it which cause illness in our society is that it is something we cannot see,” a statement reads. “It could be likened to pebbles found in one’s shoe which is only felt by the person walking in those shoes. At Basadi in Music Awards Mental Wellness and Safe Space we want to free you from those pebbles one conversation at a time, as true celebration includes healing.”

“Women experience a significant amount of bullying in the workplace, ranging from the ‘pull her down’ syndrome in the corporate world to harassment at musical events and festivals by organisers, media and the public,” Joburg City Theatres CEO Xoliswa Nduneni Ngema said. “While this space is intended to be inclusive for everyone to learn about the fundamentals of mental health and access tools for healing, we believe that women often lack the support they need in terms of mental health. We want them to be aware that they are heard and seen.”

“The Mental Health and Safe Spaces workshop is part fulfilment of the recommendations from the Women’s Rights and Representation in the Music Sector Research that SAMRO conducted in 2022,” SAMRO said. “Through our partnership with Basadi in Music Awards, we are committed to creating safe spaces and providing practical tools for women to overcome these obstacles. SAMRO stands firmly behind this initiative and believes in the transformative power of fostering a supportive and inclusive music environment for women.”

“As an organisation deeply committed to acknowledging and celebrating musical excellence, as well as recognising and honouring the remarkable achievements of women across a wide spectrum of entertainment domains, we firmly believe that it is of utmost importance for us to actively engage with and address the various challenges faced by the industry and its dedicated affiliates.”