SA: BASA holds AGM, announces new leadership

The meeting reaffirmed BASA’s mandate to strengthen collaboration between the business and creative sectors to unlock the potential of South Africa’s cultural economy.

Outgoing chairperson Zingisa Motloba reflected on her seven-year tenure, highlighting the organisation’s progress and resilience during a period of transition. “We have stayed the course and come through better and stronger,” she said, thanking BASA’s staff and board for their commitment and support.

BASA received an unqualified audit opinion for the financial year, reflecting sound governance and financial stability.

The AGM also marked the first address by BASA’s newly appointed CEO, who outlined a vision for “BASA 2.0” – a strategy aimed at positioning the organisation as a key enabler in Africa’s growing creative economy. She described the creative sector as “a driver of social and economic transformation” and said BASA was “uniquely positioned to build the ecosystems that enable creativity to thrive and scale.”

The meeting also confirmed a leadership transition, with deputy chairperson Nizenande Machi appointed as the new chairperson of the BASA board following Motloba’s departure. Three new board members – Monene Moila, Ntsoaki Nsibanyoni and Thando Philison – were also elected, bringing a mix of business, creative and leadership expertise.

With refreshed leadership and a renewed strategy, BASA said it remains focused on fostering partnerships that support innovation and sustainability within South Africa’s creative industries.