GEORGE CREATIVES — THIS IS YOUR CALL TO ACTION

Artists, musicians, podcasters, producers, writers, designers, filmmakers, content creators and all creative professionals across the Western Cape are invited to an unmissable opportunity: a completely FREE, two-day IP & Music Industry Workshop hosted at George High School on 12 and 13 December.

This workshop delivers rare, direct access to two powerhouse speakers from the George Herald and Group Editors, industry leaders who have shaped the media landscape on the Garden Route and beyond.

Their expertise spans journalism, digital strategy, music, theatre, storytelling, and creative production, offering participants a depth of insight not easily found in local training spaces.

FEATURED SPEAKERS

Lizette da Silva:

Lizette da Silva is the highly respected editor of the George Herald, one of South Africa’s most successful community newspapers.

She brings more than 23 years of hands-on journalism experience, having started her career as a junior journalist before rising through the ranks to become editor in 2017.

Under her leadership, the George Herald has undergone a dynamic digital evolution supported by a strong multimedia team.

This transformation has strengthened the publication’s online reach, increased community engagement, and earned the George Herald national recognition including the prestigious Best Sold Community Newspaper 2024 award from the Forum of Community Journalists (FCJ).

Lizette’s work reflects her deep commitment to credible, ethical, community-driven journalism.

She is passionate about training and empowering future media professionals and ensuring that local stories continue to hold their rightful place in South Africa’s media landscape.

Born in Pacaltsdorp, Lizette spent early formative years in Johannesburg and Queenstown before returning to the Western Cape, completing high school at Hoërskool Bellville in Cape Town.

She has lived back in Pacaltsdorp since 1999 with her husband and two daughters, deeply rooted in the community she serves.

Beatrice Esterhuysen:

With a background spanning theatre, music, literature, and media production, Beatrice Esterhuysen brings a rare multidisciplinary perspective to creative work. She is a graduate in Language and Literature, holds a Grade 8 Diploma in Musical Theatre, and has built a career that bridges both performance and production.

As a former theatre manager, she oversaw live productions and collaborated with artists across genres.

She later worked as an independent musician and impresario, managing concerts and events with both local and international performers, giving her hands-on experience in music management, artist relations, marketing, and audience development.

For the past seven years, Beatrice has been a key figure at Group Editors, where she leads the digital team responsible for video production, studio interviews, multimedia storytelling, and digital engagement across the company’s online platforms.

Having lived in George for two decades, she is passionate about uplifting local talent and helping creatives navigate the fast-changing world of digital media.

WHY GEORGE CREATIVES SHOULD ATTEND

• Gain strategic insights from seasoned professionals who understand both the creative and business sides of the industry.
• Learn how to protect your intellectual property, strengthen your brand, and position yourself for new opportunities.
• Understand royalties, collecting agencies, contracts, legislation, and the financial structures that support a sustainable creative career.
• Explore opportunities in radio, podcasting, digital storytelling, arts management, and collaborative media.
• Build connections with a vibrant network of fellow musicians, producers, writers, podcasters, and entrepreneurs.

EVENT DETAILS

Admission: FREE — Tickets available via Quicket

https://www.quicket.co.za/events/348799-ip-music-industry-workshop-for-artists/#/

Venue: George High School Dates: 12 & 13 December — both days begin at 09:00
Queries: Germaine Leonard — germaineleonardmusic@gmail.com

This two-day programme offers rich, practical, career-building knowledge designed specifically for creatives seeking to expand their professional toolkit. If you want to advance your craft, protect your work, and access new revenue pathways and partnerships, this workshop is a vital opportunity.

George creatives are encouraged to take full advantage of this rare chance to learn, grow, and collaborate. Seats are free, but limited — secure your place now.