The Amplifaya Creative Business Conference, recently held at 7 Arts in Harare, proved to be both informative and highly successful. The event brought together panelists from diverse industries to share valuable insights on how creatives can effectively monetize their work.

Plot Mhako, Creative Director at Amplifaya CXB, speaking to My Afrika Magazine stated, “The Amplifaya Creative Business Conference highlighted key insights: Zimbabwe remains a largely untapped creative market, there is a need for greater authenticity in our creative products, and collaboration is essential for collective growth. A recurring sentiment was the lack of national pride and the urgent need to embrace an unapologetically Zimbabwean identity while fostering a shared national creative vision.”

The conference emphasized the importance of artists approaching corporates with tailored business proposals that highlight potential synergies. Panelists stressed that artists should not hesitate to reach out to companies, as many corporates actively seek sponsorship opportunities.

“It is not about being too big or small; it is about presenting a compelling business case,” noted one panelist. They clarified that their role was not to act as record labels or artist managers but as corporates committed to supporting Zimbabwe’s arts sector.

To succeed, artists were encouraged to adopt entrepreneurial mindsets, transitioning from reliance on grants and funding to operating as sustainable businesses. This involves networking extensively to foster collaborations and opportunities, leveraging digital platforms to showcase their work and reach broader audiences, and establishing proper management structures to handle finances, bookings, and logistics.

Registering with the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) was also highlighted as essential for artists.

Napoleon Nyanhi, CEO of NACZ, explained that registration facilitates smoothen collaborations with government entities, streamlines the Procurement Regulatory Authority of Zimbabwe (PRAZ) clearance, and simplifies visa acquisition for international exhibitions.

“Amplifaya Creative Business Conference was an important catalyst for the NACZ’s objective of professionalizing the arts sector towards the vision of an empowered, successful upper middle income arts industry by 2030” said Mr. Nyanhi

By embracing these strategies, creatives can empower themselves to thrive in Zimbabwe’s growing arts industry. The Amplifaya Creative Business Conference equipped attendees with practical tools to build corporate partnerships, enhance business acumen, amplify their online presence, and streamline financial and logistical operations.

As the creative sector continues to evolve, events like Amplifaya play a vital role in nurturing Zimbabwean talent and fostering a vibrant arts ecosystem.

“Moving forward, it’s crucial for creatives and stakeholders to implement the actionable recommendations shared. Amplifaya must also spearhead masterclasses and programs to equip artists with the tools to turn these ideas into reality.” Mhako added.