Arts and Culture Trust appoints Mathabiso Chamane as new board chair

Nkuna will remain on the board as a trustee, a move the organisation said is intended to maintain continuity in leadership as it enters a new phase of development.

Chamane, who is based in Pretoria, has more than 15 years of professional experience in governance, audit, risk and finance, including senior roles within a national public entity under South Africa’s Department of Sport, Arts and Culture. She is a Chartered Global Management Accountant and Certified Risk Practitioner, and has served in various non-executive director roles across public and private sector institutions.

In a statement, ACT chief executive Jessica Denyschen said Nkuna had played a key role in strengthening the organisation’s governance and strategic direction during his tenure.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to Arthur Nkuna for his steady, principled leadership during his time as Chairperson,” she said. “Arthur has led the Trust with integrity and consistency, strengthening our governance and sharpening our strategic focus.”

Denyschen added that Chamane’s appointment brings additional expertise to the organisation. “Mathabiso brings exceptional governance and risk expertise, alongside a deep commitment to social upliftment and the arts. With the full support of myself and the Board, she will lead the Trust confidently into a future-focused and impactful new chapter.”

Chamane said she was honoured to take on the role and acknowledged the work of her predecessor. “I am deeply honoured to accept the role of Chairperson of the Arts & Culture Trust and grateful for the confidence placed in me to serve in this capacity,” she said.

“I would like to sincerely acknowledge and thank my predecessor for the exceptional leadership and strong foundation that continue to position the organisation for growth and greater impact.”

She added that ACT plays an important role in supporting artists and cultural practitioners. “The Arts & Culture Trust plays a vital role in enabling South African arts and culture practitioners to build sustainable futures. I look forward to working with the Trustees, management, partners, and stakeholders as we continue strengthening the organisation and advancing our strategic objectives through sound governance and shared vision.”

Nkuna described the transition as part of the organisation’s ongoing development. “It has been a privilege to serve as Chairperson of the Arts & Culture Trust, and I am proud to hand the baton to Mathabiso Chamane,” he said.

“Her depth in auditing, risk, and governance has already strengthened our Board, and her technical expertise with visionary leadership has elevated how we work together.”

He added that he would continue contributing as a trustee, with a focus on programming and stakeholder engagement.

Founded more than three decades ago, ACT supports arts and culture initiatives across South Africa through development programmes and funding for projects spanning literature, music, visual arts, theatre and dance.