The upcoming three-day June 16 Soweto Jubilee – a groundbreaking township tourism initiative led by the Soweto community – was launched with the aim of raising R1 million (€49 695) to empower the township economy.
Amongst others, the money will be used to support youth entrepreneurs, and fund the development of two historic schools pivotal to the June 16, 1976 Soweto Uprising – Phefeni Secondary School and Orlando West High School.
This ambitious programme, spearheaded by the WeUprising Movement and the June 16 Youth Development Foundation, is being held in collaboration with Rotaract District 9400, the Soweto Rotary Community Corps, and The United South Africa Movement, marking the beginning of a journey towards 2026, the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising.
The three-day festival is designed as a township tourism packaged experience, priced at R1 000 (€50) per visitor.
This year, in partnership with the Eyethu Heritage Hall, Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers, and the National School of Arts, the festival is targeting 1 000 visitors, with the goal of attracting 10 000 visitors next year, and one million visitors by 2026.
This initiative aims to contribute significantly to the township economy, by supporting local businesses, creatives, and artists, while providing a unique Soweto cultural experience for tourists.
The three-day programme is as follows:
- Day 1: June 14 – Biyo Film Screening: Showcasing films themed around apartheid history and discussions at the new Eyethu Heritage Hall, inspiring new storytellers and preserving the theatre’s legacy.
- Day 2: June 15 – Sober Discussions: A panel discussion bridging senior and youth generations of activists and entrepreneurs, focusing on innovative solutions to today’s challenges, held at the Eyethu Heritage Hall.
- Day 3: June 16 – Soweto Experience: The day begins with breakfast at popular local restaurant, Native Rebels, followed by a 4km morning walk re-tracing the 1976 history. The tourism experience continues with a youth market and an all-day music showcase at Lebo’s Soweto Backpackers.
Additionally, the programme will recruit 100 unemployed youth from the community as volunteers to help during the festival. This youth drive aims to provide valuable skills, work experience, and help to reduce idle time that often leads to substance abuse and crime.
“The June 16 Soweto Jubilee is more than an event; it is a movement to restore dignity, provide opportunities, and build a future where the youth of Soweto can thrive,” the festival organisers said in a statement.
