The Basha Uhuru Freedom Festival is Joburg's most anticipated annual youth arts festival. The festival highlights young people's role and participation in creative and social movements.
It celebrates youth, freedom, and creativity and is organised by the Constitution Hill Trust in partnership with various cultural and artistic organisations. The festival is held at Constitution Hill, a site of historical significance that once served as a prison where many political activists were incarcerated. Today, it is a museum symbolising the country's journey to democracy.
The key elements of the festival encompass a range of cultural and artistic expressions, including:
- Music: The festival features performances by various musicians, spanning genres such as jazz, hip-hop, electronic music, and more in the Sounds of Freedom Festival.
- Art Exhibitions: Visual arts are a significant part of the festival, with exhibitions showcasing the work of contemporary artists. This includes paintings, sculptures, photography, and installations, often addressing themes of freedom, identity, and social justice.
- Film Screenings: The festival screens films and documentaries that resonate with the themes of freedom and youth. These often include discussions with filmmakers and actors.
- Theatre and Performance Art: The festival includes performances by theatre groups and performance artists, offering a platform for experimental and innovative expressions.
-Summits and conferences - The festival features both a Creative Conference and a an Amapiano Summit where guests can join artists, creators, and industry leaders for a powerful fusion of sound, innovation, and inspiration.
-Youth Uprising Expo - The latest addition being added in 2025, this expo is where creativity meets innovation and the next wave of changemakers take the stage
