Two months into her new role as National Arts Festival (NAF) chief executive officer, Palesa Kadi says she is finding her feet and settling into life in Makhanda. She relocated to the small town after officially taking up the position on 1 August. Kadi expressed her admiration for Makhanda's landscape, welcoming community, and the significance of the festival to the local people. She is confident that she is exactly where she is meant to be.
For Kadi, her appointment is also a homecoming of sorts. Born in Red Location in Gqeberha, she grew up near the TC White Recreational Hall in New Brighton, where her grandfather worked as a caretaker. The historic hall hosted various recreational and cultural activities, introducing Kadi to the arts and renowned artists like Mahlathini and Gibson Kente. This early exposure instilled in her a deep love for the arts and a passion to advocate for artists.
As she leads an institution that has played a significant role in South Africa's cultural landscape for over five decades, Kadi brings her soul, heart, and an open mind for further growth. NAF has historically provided a platform for celebrated artists and served as a launchpad for emerging talent. Kadi emphasized that young people will remain a focus, with about 60% of festival participants being youth. She aims to attract audiences across generations, particularly children, to develop a sense of nostalgia and connection to the festival.
Kadi's leadership journey began at a young age, shaped by her involvement in sports and community organizations. Her career spans over two decades in the cultural and creative economy, including arts administration, broadcasting regulation, heritage, and strategic communications. As a mother of two daughters, leading NAF is an opportunity for her to contribute to the cultural development of the Eastern Cape, a province she calls home.
The Eastern Cape is rich in talent and culture, and NAF is an epicenter where the world can engage with the diversity and texture that local creatives bring. Kadi described NAF as a reflection of the soul of South Africa. She is committed to ensuring the festival's legacy continues and grows. Various stakeholders, including Yolisa Koza from the Standard Bank Group and Nomatamsanqa Gobozi-Nibe from the Eastern Cape Department of Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, have welcomed Kadi's appointment and expressed their support.
The Makhanda Ratepayers Association, represented by Thomas Stone, stands behind Kadi and encourages her to engage local businesses, particularly in the tourism and hospitality sectors, as she develops plans for the festival. The association believes that the festival is an economic driver that can bring in tourists and visitors to the city, complementing its educational institutions. Kadi's task ahead involves building on a legacy, creating opportunities for emerging artists, and strengthening relationships with the community.
For Kadi, the role is a culmination of her life's work and experiences. Having spent her childhood surrounded by artists and cultural practitioners, she believes she has come full circle. Anyone interested in meeting Kadi and discussing Fest 2027 is invited to attend a multi-stakeholder planning workshop at the Graham Hotel on 7 October at 5 pm.
Key points
- Palesa Kadi is the new CEO of the National Arts Festival.
- Kadi aims to attract audiences across generations and make the festival thrive with community support.
- The festival will focus on young people, with about 60% of participants being youth.
