True experience of culture and heritage
The official launch was held at Margate Hotel on the Wednesday before, before all the events took place from Friday through to Sunday.
The KwaZulu-Natal Department of Sports, Arts and Culture hosted the first edition of the KZN Heritage and Cultural Experience at Ugu Sports and Leisure Centre near Gamalakhe last weekend.
An array of dignitaries were present, including the likes of KZN Premier Sihle Zikalala, KZN Sports, Arts and Culture MEC Hlengiwe Mavimbela, Ray Nkonyeni Municipality mayor Zero Mqadi and Ugu District Municipality speaker Sizwe Ngcobo.
The event was destined to be successful, with both local and provincial governments joining forces.
The official launch was held at Margate Hotel on the Wednesday before, before all the events took place from Friday through to Sunday.
It proved to be a wonderful opportunity for the the creative and cultural enthusiasts.
Some of the work on exhibit included displays of fine arts, embroidery, bead work and traditional quisine, with local schools in attendance.
“We achieved the target of the number of schools invited and they had an opportunity to hop around from stall to stall. We also aired movies shot and produced by local students from the Esayidi TVET College,” said MEC Mavimbela.
Day two saw mass support support from the locals, as they came out in their numbers to enjoy the all day concert that featured song and dance from all genres and backgrounds.
There were national and local stars, including rappers Duncan, Zakwe, DJ Sparks Bantwana and vocalist Holly Ray.
They took to the stage to entertain a very interactive crowd throughout the day and night.
“This is a beautiful display of what KZN is all about, local and national names bringing joy to the community,” said Mavimbela.
The weekend’s festivities concluded at St. Michaels beach on Sunday, with more live performances, this time coupled with live comedy from the likes of Felix Hlophe.
There was much joy and laughter, much needed after the limitations of lockdown.
“We are trying to promote not only the local creatives but the youth, to get them involved and to educate themselves in art and culture. We are positive that this wonderful event will return to our shores next year,” said RNM mayor, Mqadi.
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