According to the duo, the lockdown has had a significant impact on every industry and the economy; the creative industry is no different.

A recent online survey published by Akum Agency indicated that a total of 1 268 live music events have already fallen through in South Africa, affecting 2 334 artists at a cost of R82.8 million thus far.

The duo says that, although the restrictions have been slightly relaxed under Level 4, with some businesses reopening, many creative workers will continue to deal with losses of income as their craft relies heavily on social interaction.

Digify Africa, together with BASA, says that it seeks to help artists address this challenge through a training programme that will deliver a series of dynamic training webinar lectures focusing on empowering creatives with the skills they need to better utilise the digital tools they have at their disposal.

"BASA is really excited to be part of this very important project that offers a platform for knowledge and skills exchange," says Tumi Motsoatsoe, head of programmes and development at BASA.

"This is an opportunity for artists to not only acquire digital skills but to also share ideas on how to holistically navigate this challenging period, and to prepare for the future. We hope that this partnership with Digify Africa will grow beyond this offering," adds Motsoatsoe.

Over the three sessions, the training will cover three modules, including:
  • Wednesday, 6 May: Introduction to Online Marketing
  • Friday, 8 May: Online audit & Content Marketing
  • Wednesday, 13 May: Content Marketing Strategy and Content Monetisation
According to the duo, the key objective of these sessions is to enable artists to better understand how they can navigate the digital landscape and digital adaptation for online profitability.

The series will close off with a discussion on Legal and Finance, as well as Mental Health. Bongani Khanyile and Adwoa Ankoma from the creative legal agency, Legalese, will join in to share insights on online legalities and ways participants can protect their online work.

Anele Siswana from Procare Drama for Life will also speak about ways that artists can manage anxiety and uncertainty during this period.

"We are looking forward to engaging with artists and helping them find ways of integrating social media platforms into their trade for the current climate and after," says Qhakaza Mthembu, COO at Digify Africa.

Digital Creatives kicked-off on Wednesday, 6 May between 12:00 and 13:30. The sessions are free and open to all.

Individuals are encouraged to join the sessions and register here

For more information, visit www.digifyafrica.com.