For over 20 years the Intwasa Festival koBulawayo has played a crucial role in keeping the arts alive in Bulawayo. It has provided a vibrant platform for theatre, music, dance, and literature, showcasing both established and emerging talent.
This year, the festival is seeking 50 dedicated supporters to help empower emerging artists in poetry, hip-hop, dance, writing, and music. For a modest contribution of $20, individuals can become a Friend of Intwasa, supporting the establishment of a dedicated stage specifically for emerging artists at the festival this year from the 24th to the 27th of September 2025.
The initiative aims to create opportunities for these artists to showcase their performances, build confidence, and develop their craft in a supportive environment. This approach appears to be a clever way to engage patrons who appreciate the craft and want to support the festival.
There has been much debate about finding the value of art and quantifying the bankability of art forms. Whilst far from novel, this model might just offer a new perspective; it resonates with how online influencers and content creators use platforms like Buy Me a Coffee or Patreon to build communities willing to pay not just for special access but to support the art form itself. Could this serve as a different offline method to sustain traditional art forms? If so, we hope that it will succeed.
As the arts community navigates continuous sustainability obstacles, initiatives like Intwasa offer a glimmer of hope and the promise of a flourishing future for the creative sector.
The festival director, Raisdon Baya emphasized that this year’s fundraising efforts are essential for sustaining artistic expression in the region.
The initiative is not just about financial support; it’s about fostering a community that values the arts and recognizes their importance for cultural dialogue.
You can get in touch with Intwasa via their website or email here.
