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The Gathering: Namibia’s first inclusive creative platform launches in Swakopmund
Namibia is set to witness a new chapter of creative collaboration with the debut of The Gathering, an event designed to bring together artists, innovators, entrepreneurs and creators from across the country. Slated for 17 December 2024 at the historic Woermannhaus Courtyard in Swakopmund, The Gathering will be a single-day celebration focused on building a more connected and dynamic creative community, with plans to expand to an annual, and eventually regional, event.
The Gathering emerges as a unique space at the intersection of art, design, culture and business – aimed at fostering cross-disciplinary exchanges among local creators. The event will offer visitors the chance to connect and collectively inspire, mentor and support each other and the industry. According to the event’s founders, this platform is rooted in a spirit of inclusivity, emphasising collaboration beyond regional, economic, age or gender divides. By gathering Namibians from various creative sectors, the event aims to initiate business connections, generate new ideas and uplift emerging talents.
The inaugural event will feature creative industry leaders such as Margaret Courtney-Clarke, Tuli Mekondjo, Kauna Ndilula, Nanyemba Katamba, Victoria Sanyime, Dan Craven, Leon Engelbrecht, Marcii Magson, Laschandre Coetzee and Alba Nalo. These individuals will share stories of their personal and professional journeys, detailing the challenges and triumphs they have encountered while building their creative paths, careers and businesses. The event’s format includes not only talks but also interactive sessions designed to inspire participants to reconnect with their creative potential.
The Gathering is an inclusive celebration of Namibia’s creativity, bringing together the diverse makers, doers and dreamers who are shaping the nation’s creative landscape.
Accessibility and inclusivity being core values of The Gathering, corporate-sponsored scholarship seats will cover travel and event costs for emerging talents and young professionals who might otherwise be unable to attend. “Beyond providing a space for industry players to connect, the heart of this event lies in the exchange of knowledge to younger generations and those who have previously not had access to these conversations. We strongly believe that intergenerational exchange, mentorship and collaboration beyond socioeconomic or regional divides are key to fostering a culturally vibrant and equitable creative economy,” says Laschandre Coetzee, one of the event founders. Additionally, students aged 15-22 can volunteer, gaining valuable experience while participating in the event. The day’s activities will also feature coffee, a light and healthy lunch as well as evening cocktails and mocktails to wrap up the day.
The event is spearheaded by Collyn Ahart of ONGUZA Bicycles, Niita Shikongo of NiaLumino Communications, and The Project Room duo Laschandre Coetzee and Frieda Lühl. This leadership team envisions The Gathering as a launchpad for a sustained, countrywide creative movement, offering ongoing workshops, events and an online content hub accessible to all Namibians. The Gathering is an inclusive celebration of Namibia’s creativity, bringing together the diverse makers, doers and dreamers who are shaping the nation’s creative landscape. Secure your seat by sending an email to theprojectroomnamibia@gmail.com for ticket purchases. For updates, follow The Gathering on Instagram at @togather_nam
The Project Room - Namibia www.theprojectroom.com.na
