Arts & Culture Trust calls for proposals for Nyoloha Scholarship Programme leadership roles

The Arts & Culture Trust (ACT) is on the hunt for passionate and dynamic individuals to take on key roles within the upcoming ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme (NSP). As the programme gears up for its next iteration, the ACT is inviting applications for the prestigious positions of Artistic Director and Stage Manager, essential roles aimed at enriching South Africa’s cultural landscape through support, mentorship, and artistic excellence.

Exclusive to South African citizens available from August to October 2025, the roles promise to contribute significantly to the arts community, nurturing the next generation of creative talent.

The Role of Artistic Director

The Artistic Director will play a pivotal role in shaping the Performing Arts segment of the NSP during a rehearsal period scheduled from 6 to 10 October 2025. Particularly noteworthy is the emphasis on candidates with musical theatre experience, which will be taken into strong consideration. The selected Artistic Director will work closely with both an assistant choreographer and an assistant vocal coach, all under the umbrella of creating a beautiful artistic vision for the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme Gala Event set to take place on 11 October 2025.

The Stage Manager’s Responsibilities

Meanwhile, the Stage Manager will collaborate with the Artistic Director to coordinate all functions necessary for a successful production from rehearsals through to performances. This includes working diligently during finals week from 5 to 12 October 2025, where they will implement the technical support that will bring the artistic vision to fruition during the Gala Event.

A Partnership for Growth

In partnership with leading entities such as Nedbank, Sun International, the MTN Foundation SA, and Business and Arts South Africa (BASA), the ACT NSP stands as a beacon for aspiring artists. This undergraduate scholarship initiative is designed to empower qualifying youth, equipping them with the necessary skills to pursue their tertiary education in the visual and performing arts sector. Furthermore, the programme aims to provide practising artists with resources that enhance their careers, ensuring sustainability within the competitive and dynamic cultural and creative industries.

“We’re committed to nurturing the next generation of creative talent,” highlighted Jessica Denyschen, CEO of ACT. “We’re on the lookout for dynamic professionals who not only have a passion for the arts but who also bring a strong commitment to mentorship, innovation, and excellence in their fields. Ideal candidates will have experience integrating emerging technologies into the visual and performing arts, and a desire to help young artists unlock real-world opportunities. Through the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme, we aim to create meaningful pathways to employment for aspiring creatives—and we invite visionary artists to help us shape a more vibrant and inclusive creative future.”

Mentorship and Opportunities

The selected professionals will engage in a comprehensive three-month bi-weekly mentorship and training programme, conducted online on Saturdays. This initiative includes specialised training and guidance from empowered industry experts, with a particular focus on the integration of immersive technologies within the visual and performing arts.

The culmination of the programme will showcase the talents of 15 finalists who will participate in an intensive week of master classes and rehearsals. This high-energy week will lead to a final performing arts showcase and exhibition, where two deserving participants will earn scholarships valued at three hundred thousand rand each. Here, participants will gain unrivalled experience and a chance to connect with other emerging artists from diverse backgrounds, fostering community and collaborative growth.

Application Process

Aspiring candidates eager to join the ACT Nyoloha Scholarship Programme must submit their applications by Friday, 13 June 2025, at 4:30pm. Detailed job specifications and information regarding the application process can be found in the ACT Nyoloha RFP document, accessible via www.act.org.za/nyoloharfp.

For inquiries, interested individuals can reach out to ACT Programme Coordinator Angelinah Kemane at angelinah@act.org.za.