DAC webinar: Unlocking Africa's creative potential - Lessons from South Africa's gaming and animation industries
Africa's creative economy is vibrant and growing, yet emerging entrepreneurs face unique challenges in gaming, animation and other creative sectors.
In this webinar, hosts Prof Rajneesh Narula and Barry van Zyl, and an Africa-wide panel will explore:
- How emerging creative entrepreneurs can navigate structural challenges and market dynamics
- Strategies for supporting Africa's next generation of creative leaders
- Lessons from successful South African gaming and animation projects
Event information:
Date: Thursday 4 September 2025
Time: 17:30–19:00 (SAST)
Cost: Free
Meet the Panelists:
- Canda Kincses – With over 20 years' experience in Southern Africa's creative sector, Canda has organised training initiatives for underserved communities, partnered with cultural organisations and industry bodies, and worked with top South African artists on award-winning projects. She currently consults on industry development, research and strategic orientation for larger frameworks.
- Thato Moraka – Founder & CEO of Leaders in Motion Academy, with 25+ years' experience in Africa's creative economy. Thato has trained over 500 underprivileged youth and invested R17 million in bursaries. He is committed to professionalising Africa's creative industries through storytelling and monetising creative assets.
- Ben Myres – CEO & Creative Director of Nyamakop, Johannesburg. Ben led the development of Semblance, the first African-developed game released on a Nintendo console, and the upcoming Relooted, the largest video game made in sub-Saharan Africa by budget and team size. He is a former programme manager for A MAZE, Johannesburg, and a lecturer in game design.
- Avuzwa Ntshongwana – Co-founder of the Southgame Studio, a leading black youth-owned games start-up. Avuzwa has won multiple awards, incubated through Tshimologong, and advocates for diversity in gaming through Women in Games South Africa.