House of Arts Festival blends business, creativity and social action
THE House of Arts Association is set to turn Hatcliffe 3 Primary School into a hub of enterprise, creativity and youth engagement on Friday when it stages the eighth edition of the HA Festival.
While artistic performances remain at the heart of the event, organisers say this year’s festival will place equal emphasis on economic empowerment by providing market opportunities for young entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Youth owned enterprises, community organisations and service providers will showcase products and services throughout the day, creating networking and business opportunities while exposing participants to potential investors and development partners.
The festival has attracted participation from several government ministries, including Youth Empowerment, Development and Vocational Training, Sport, Recreation, Arts and Culture, Health and Child Care, Women Affairs, Community, Small and Medium Enterprises Development, Primary and Secondary Education and Environment, Climate and Wildlife.
Exhibitions will run alongside discussions focusing on entrepreneurship, employment creation, skills development and access to youth support services.
Organisers said the initiative reflects the growing role of the creative industry as a driver of economic development, particularly for young people from marginalised communities.
Beyond business opportunities, the festival will feature awareness campaigns on drug and substance abuse, mental health, sexual and reproductive health, climate change and gender based violence through music, poetry and theatre performances.
The event is expected to attract artists, entrepreneurs, policymakers, community leaders and development partners, with organisers aiming to strengthen partnerships that promote youth participation in community development.
The House of Arts Association said it expects the festival to generate greater recognition for young creatives while creating sustainable income generating opportunities and strengthening dialogue between young people and decision makers.
