Arts and Creative Industries as Catalysts for Social Change, Says Deputy Minister.

Durban: The arts and creative industries hold the unique power to build empathy and drive behavioural change, says Deputy Minister in the Presidency responsible for Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Mmapaseka Steve Letsike. Letsike was speaking at a stakeholder engagement on the empowerment of women, youth and people with disabilities held at The Playhouse Company in Durban on Tuesday. According to South African Government News Agency, the event, held under the theme 'Addressing social ills through the creative industry', highlighted how the creative industry acts as a vehicle to address the impact of violence against people with disabilities, sex workers, LGBTQI individuals, and women and children. It also showcased opportunities to tackle gender-based violence and femicide (GBVF) in communities through sports, arts, and culture. In her address, Letsike emphasized the arts' ability to influence social consciousness and drive behavioural change. She noted that forms such as music, theatre, visual arts, and storytelling can effectively raise awareness and influence behaviour where traditional methods might not succeed. Letsike pointed out that the creative industry plays a crucial role in educational prevention and intervention by teaching respect, empathy, and non-violence through various art forms. Letsike further elaborated that artworks depicting discrimination and theatre productions portraying resilience can spark essential conversations around societal health. The arts can challenge outdated norms that sustain violence and discrimination against women, girls, and LGBTQIA+ individuals. By doing so, the industry becomes an active participant in reshaping the nation's narrative, offering long-term, adaptable, and holistic approaches to prevention that resonate with all South Africans. The Deputy Minister highlighted the importance of an all-of-society approach, urging every citizen to contribute towards addressing the country's social challenges. She stressed that ending social challenges is a na tional obligation, a message that the cultural and creative industries must disseminate widely. Letsike also encouraged individuals in the industry to persist with their impactful work, which has the potential to counteract violence against marginalized groups and eradicate social acceptance of discrimination. Continuing efforts to address GBVF, Letsike mentioned that the government is implementing the National Strategic Plan (NSP) on GBVF. This plan represents a unified, multi-sectoral strategy to combat the scourge across society. The recent launch of the National Comprehensive GBVF Prevention Strategy aims to broaden intervention scopes and focus on preventive measures. These initiatives have improved survivor support services, enhanced legal frameworks, and strengthened partnerships with civil society and the private sector. The event served as a precursor to the District Development Model Presidential Imbizo, where President Cyril Ramaphosa will assess service delivery and engage with the community at Umnini Sports Field in Umgababa, south of Durban.