johannesburg welcomes tems' leading vibe initiative

The day began early with arrivals and informal connections forming over breakfast, before the curated programme that moved between conversation, learning and collaboration. A panel titled Power Behind The Vision opened the dialogue, exploring creative ownership, image-making and the importance of building the right teams early on. Moderated by Lerato Matsoso, the discussion brought together voices including Jade Kelly, Tsenolo Africa, Manaileng Maphike and Bonnie Meslane, each offering insights into building the right team at the right time, foundations of image and long-term setup. From there, the programme shifted into focused masterclasses, allowing participants to move deeper into their respective disciplines. Artists, songwriters and producers split into dedicated tracks, led by a mix of established and emerging practitioners, including Elaine, Zee Nxumalo, Wale Davies, Kay Faith and DJ Tshegu. These sessions moved beyond theory, offering tangible frameworks around sound and the realities of building a sustainable practice.

The afternoon introduced a more fluid, collaborative energy with the Collab Lab sessions where small groups of participants worked alongside artists and producers like Thandi Draai, Rowlene, DJ Tshegu, and Nannette. A second panel, If I Could Tell Her, followed soon after. The conversation featured Moonchild Sanelly, Zoe Modiga, Kamo Mphela and Uncle Waffles, who spoke candidly about navigating the industry, breaking barriers and defining growth on their own terms, and offering an understanding of different options for growth for artists at different levels

Later in the day, Tems joined the programme for a more intimate fireside Q&A session, guided by Leading Vibe Initiative founder, Tubi. Speaking directly to the cohort, she reflected on her own trajectory, offering insight into the music industry, patience and self-belief required to sustain a music career. The day closed with a social mixer, where the formal structure dissolved into something more organic: conversations continued, connections deepened, and the atmosphere shifted toward a relaxed music and drinks atmosphere.

The Johannesburg edition of the Leading Vibe Initiative functioned as a blueprint for what access can look like when it is specific and community-led. With further rollouts planned across the continent, the initiative positioned itself as an evolving network, one built for women, by women, and rooted in an understanding that meaningful change requires both structure and continuity.