Creative Careers Acceleration Programme 2023 (CCAP)

The Creative Careers Acceleration Programme is a dynamic initiative designed to bridge the gap between academic training and the practical realities of pursuing a career in the creative arts sector in South Africa. Created and managed by Creative Careers South Africa, this programme has been crafted to provide young creatives with the essential tools, knowledge, and industry exposure needed to build successful careers in the arts.

The programme operates by partnering with various host organizations that provide hands-on, practical experiences for the interns over a period of five weeks or fifteen days. These host organizations are carefully selected to ensure that they align with the programme’s ethos of fostering creativity, professionalism, and innovation. Interns are integrated into the daily workflows of these organizations, gaining invaluable real-world experience and insights that can only be acquired through active participation in the sector.

One of the key components of the Creative Careers Acceleration Programme is the mentorship aspect. Interns are paired with experienced mentors from Creative Careers South Africa who guide them through their journey, offering support, knowledge, and advice. These mentors play a crucial role in shaping the intern’s understanding of the industry and helping them develop the necessary skills to thrive in the creative arts sector.

In addition to mentorship, the programme includes team briefings, workshops, and presentations, all designed to further enhance the intern’s learning experience. The interns are also required to engage in daily and weekly tasks that challenge them to think critically, problem-solve, and develop new ideas.

A unique feature of the Creative Careers Acceleration Programme is the flexibility it offers to both the interns and the host organizations. Interns may be employed by the host organizations on an ad-hoc basis for special events and programs beyond the scope of the acceleration program. This opens up additional opportunities for the interns to learn, grow, and make valuable industry connections.

Moreover, the programme takes care of the financial aspects by providing interns with stipends that are paid directly by Creative Careers South Africa. This ensures that the interns are compensated for their time and effort, making the experience more accessible to all.

The Creative Careers Acceleration Programme is presented in collaboration with Business and Arts South Africa (BASA) and the Department of Sport, Arts, and Culture through the Presidential Employment Stimulus Program. This partnership is a testament to the programme’s commitment to uplifting the South African arts sector and creating a thriving ecosystem where young creatives can flourish.

The Creative Careers Acceleration Programme is a unique and invaluable opportunity for young creatives in South Africa to gain practical experience, learn from industry professionals, and build the necessary skills to succeed in the creative arts sector. By fostering a nurturing and supportive environment, this programme hopes to make a difference in the lives of young creatives and contribute to the growth and development of the South African arts sector.