Insights & News

Thoughts on cultural policy, opera, leadership, and the evolving landscape of the arts in Africa and beyond.

Opera & Culture
January 15, 2026 Marcus Desando
The Future of Opera in South Africa: Telling Our Own Stories

Opera is evolving. It is no longer just about preserving European traditions but about using the medium to amplify African narratives. From 'Bessie: The Blue-Eyed Xhosa' to 'Hani', we are seeing a renaissance of indigenous storytelling.

Leadership
January 8, 2026 Marcus Desando
Leading with Ubuntu: A Philosophy for Arts Management

True leadership in the arts is not about hierarchy; it is about community. Applying the principles of Ubuntu to organizational management creates spaces where creativity can flourish and artists feel truly supported.

Philanthropy
January 3, 2026 Marcus Desando
Rethinking Arts Funding: The Case for Trust-Based Philanthropy

Traditional grant-making models often burden artists with excessive reporting and short-term thinking. What if funders approached their work with trust as the foundation, rather than control?