BNXN and DJ Maphorisa take up stage at Johnnie Walker AfroExchange
The evening attracted a diverse mix of influential figures, including AmaPiano sensation DJ DBN GOGO, actor Senzo Radebe from Shaka ILembe, etc.
Johannesburg witnessed a cultural eruption in late June as Johnnie Walker AfroExchange made its powerful debut at Kyalami Grand Prix Circuit.
From bold whiskey flavours to boundary-breaking beats, the event brought creative powerhouses from South Africa and Nigeria together under one roof for a celebration and exchange of African excellence between two of the continent’s most vibrant countries.
Ifeoma Agu, group head of culture, influencer, and advocacy at Diageo South, West, and Central Africa, said AfroExchange was the intersection of rhythm, canvas, and couture – a celebration of how we create, express, and define culture.
Also read: Kyalami circuit nears F1 host status as upgrade plans approved
“We walk with the artists, designers, and musicians who are turning Afro creativity into global influence. This is more than an event; it’s a platform for bold creators to be seen, heard, and celebrated,” said Agu.
Hosted by Nomuzi Mabena, popularly known as Moozlie, Johnnie Walker AfroExchange was an opportunity to remind all Africans of the power of their creativity.
The highlight of the night was the stellar music line-up, which saw the convergence of the continent’s most innovative sonic architects. Nigerian superstar BNXN delivered an unforgettable performance; South Africa’s own DJ Maphorisa shut down the stage with an Amapiano masterclass, while Thukzin took the audience on an Afro-tech journey that blurred the line between rave and ritual, among others.
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Throughout the night, the bar remained a vibrant part of the experience, offering bespoke Johnnie Walker cocktails that paired perfectly with the evening’s curated beats, visuals, and style.
One of the most exciting experiences of the evening was the Flavour Station, a dynamic corner of the venue where guests could learn to mix their cocktails under the guidance of expert mixologists.
As the music played and the drinks flowed, attendees were invited to create their art, adding brushstrokes to communal canvases and leaving their mark on AfroExchange in the most personal way possible.
The event saw the likes of South Africa’s most loved Amapiano DJ DBN GOGO, Shaka ILembe actor Senzo Radebe, former Muvhango actor Raphael Griffiths, and South African rappers Gigi Lamayne and Reason in attendance.
As the night ended and the beats faded, one thing was clear: JW AfroExchange is just getting started. With Lagos up next later in the year, the cultural baton has officially been passed, promising more collaboration, more creativity, and even deeper cross-cultural resonance.
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