AGAINST the picturesque backdrop of the JC Le Roux Brand House, in the picturesque Cape Winelands, the inaugural Africa Creator Festival (ACF) made its official debut on April 8, bringing together over 20 influential content creators from across the continent in what organisers describe as a watershed moment for Africa’s digital storytelling landscape.
The brainchild of founder Jolene Roelofse, the launch event served as both a celebration and strategic gathering ahead of the full-scale festival scheduled for June 7 in Johannesburg. Attendees included a carefully curated mix of micro and mid-tier travel and lifestyle influencers, media professionals, and industry stakeholders.
“What we’re witnessing isn’t just an emerging creator economy in Africa – it’s exploding with potential,” Roelofse told attendees during her opening address. “This festival aims to unite African creators and position them at the forefront of global digital content creation.”
The South African Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) returns as a broadcast sponsor for the second consecutive year, underscoring the growing institutional recognition of content creation as a legitimate career path and economic driver.
“As a public broadcaster, we are committed to providing a platform for these voices and helping them reach wider audiences,” said Ongeziwe “Oz” Lupuwana, newly appointed SABC Integrated Marketing Head, during the proceedings.
The day-long event featured targeted professional development opportunities, including a panel on global brand expansion featuring prominent South African media personality Maps Maponyane and content strategist Thobi Rose. A second panel focused specifically on leveraging authentic storytelling to reshape international perceptions of African tourism.
Media entrepreneur Danilo Acquisto, co-founder of Special Effects Media, conducted a specialised YouTube masterclass that offered tactical advice on content production techniques and monetization strategies specifically tailored for the African market.
The selection of the JC Le Roux Brand House – known for its premium South African sparkling wines – as the venue aligned with the festival’s emphasis on showcasing continental excellence and premium lifestyle experiences.
Industry analysts note that Africa’s creator economy is experiencing rapid growth despite challenges related to infrastructure and investment. A recent report from the International Finance Corporation estimates that Africa’s creator economy could generate over $100 billion annually by 2030 if properly supported.
The June festival in Johannesburg will build on the foundation established at the Cape Town launch, with expanded programming that includes workshops, networking opportunities, and direct connections with potential brand partners.
Tickets for the June festival are currently available through Quicket, with early bird pricing in effect until May 1.
