Creative20: An Introduction

Event Overview: Creative20 Conversation Series

A Creative Cities Approach to Transforming the Economic Logic and Prospects of Jozi

Hosted by CE20 in partnership with Gallery MOMO and Mamakashaka & Friends

Creative20 invites you to a three-part conversation series exploring how creativity can transform the future of Johannesburg and the continent at large. Through research, dialogue, and strategic imagination, this series makes the case for the Creative and Cultural Industries (CCI) as serious contributors to economic growth, innovation, and policy reform.

Led by keynote speaker Dr. Mariapaola McGurk, the series builds momentum toward the formal recognition of CE20as a G20 Engagement Group — a bold move to secure creativity a seat at the world’s most powerful tables.

Across three days, we will explore:

• How Creative Cities can shift the urban and economic logic of Johannesburg
• How the Creative Economy must be recognised and structured as capital
• What leadership, investment, and collaboration will be needed to realise this transformation

SESSION 1

Creative Cities & The Lighthouse Effect Can Transform Joburg

A virtual introduction to CE20 with Dr. Mariapaola McGurk presenting key research on the role of creative cities in building resilient, inclusive urban futures.

29 July 2025 | 16:00 – 18:00 | Online (Zoom link HERE)

SESSION 2

The Creative Economy: Transforming the Economic Logic of Jozi

An in-person keynote and panel discussion unpacking how culture, policy, and economics intersect — and what needs to change.

30 July 2025 | 18:00 – 20:30

Gallery MOMO – 52, 7th Avenue, Parktown North

SESSION THREE

Creativity as Capital: Unpacking the Value of Creative Work

A powerful panel featuring artists, strategists, and entrepreneurs exploring authorship, labour, and the real economic weight of creativity.

31 July 2025 | 18:00 – 20:30

Mamakashaka and Friends – 5 De Beer St, Braamfontein

This series is just the beginning. Join the conversation. Be part of the shift.

Follow @ce20official for more.

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