Arts and Culture Trust launches educational series in 11 SA languages

Comprising six episodes, each available in different local languages, the ACT Tlholo Comic Strip Series aims to empower proactive artists with essential business knowledge and skills.

Every Tuesday, starting on 30 April, a new episode will be released providing practical advice and tools to support artists in their entrepreneurial endeavours. The first episode of #TlholoTuesdays is available on the ACT Tlholo Resources Page, which also offers downloadable business templates that aid in professionalisation of creative businesses.

The series follows the journey of Pule, an aspiring creative entrepreneur navigating the challenges of starting a business in the arts and culture sector. Through the ACT Tlholo Resources page, Pule discovers valuable resources, gains practical knowledge and is connected with fellow arts practitioners and emerging entrepreneurs.

“We are committed to ensuring that all arts practitioners, regardless of their background or location, have access to valuable tools and guidance,” ACT CEO Jessica Denyschen said. “By offering content in 11 official South African languages, we aim to foster a more inclusive and supportive arts community for artists and arts entrepreneurs.”

Supported by Nedbank, the ACT Tlholo Resources page features animation videos and podcasts all designed to provide practical insights and inspire creativity in navigating the competitive arts landscape. These resources, rooted in an asset-based community development ethos, encourage practitioners to leverage their existing resources and knowledge to build sustainable businesses and support their communities.

Nedbank head of corporate social investments Poovi Pillay said: “The best way to reach a diverse audience is through a medium that everyone enjoys, and the ACT Tlholo series is just that. The business knowledge and entrepreneurial skills conveyed through Pule’s journey are highly entertaining and therefore memorable. In the course of the series Pule becomes a friend who journeys alongside you, the arts and culture entrepreneur, helping you face all the challenges of starting and growing a business. We hope that you will greatly benefit from this innovative addition to #TlholoTuesdays.”