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Are you a musician, actor or artist struggling to make ends meet? Do you feel like you’re constantly juggling gigs, auditions and side hustles just to stay afloat? If so, you’re not alone. The creative industry can be tough, but it’s not impossible to make a living doing what you love. In this article, we’ll explore some unconventional ways to make money as a musician, actor or artist, and provide you with tips and tricks to help you succeed.  The Struggle of the Creative Industry Let’s face it – the creative industry can be brutal. Despite the glamour and prestige associated with being a musician, actor or artist, the reality is that most creatives struggle to make a living doing what they love. In fact, according to a recent survey, the average musician earns just $31,000 per year, while most actors and artists make even less.  Part 1: Monetizing Your Craft The first step to making money as a musician, actor or artist is to monetize your craft. This can be done in a variety of ways, including: 1.1. Teaching If you have a talent for music, acting or art, why not share your skills with others? Teaching can be a great way to earn a steady income while doing what you love. You can offer private lessons, teach at a school or community center, or even create online courses. 1.2. Freelancing Freelancing is another great way to monetize your skills. Whether you’re a musician who can write jingles, an actor who can do voice overs, or an artist who can design logos, there are plenty of opportunities to offer your services as a freelancer. 1.3. Merchandising Merchandising is a great way to monetize your brand. Whether you sell your own merchandise or partner with a company to create branded products, merchandising can provide a steady stream of income. Part 2: Diversifying Your Income Streams Once you’ve monetized your craft, the next step is to diversify your income streams. This can help you weather the ups and downs of the industry and ensure that you always have multiple sources of income. Some ways to diversify your income streams include:  2.1. Investing Investing your money wisely can help you build wealth over time. Consider investing in stocks, bonds or real estate to diversify your income streams. 2.2. Crowdfunding Crowdfunding can be a great way to raise money for a creative project or venture. Sites like Kickstarter and IndieGoGo allow you to pitch your idea to a large audience and raise funds from supporters. 2.3. Affiliate Marketing Affiliate marketing is a way to earn commissions by promoting other people’s products. If you have a strong online presence, you can partner with companies to promote their products and earn a commission for each sale. Part 3: Staying Relevant and Building Your Brand Finally, it’s important to stay relevant and build your brand in order to succeed as a musician, actor or artist. Some ways to do this include: 3.1. Networking Networking is key in the creative industry. Attend industry events, connect with other creatives on social media, and build relationships with people who can help you advance your career.  3.2. Social Media Social media can be a powerful tool for building your brand and connecting with fans. Use platforms like Instagram, Twitter and YouTube to share your work, engage with your audience and build your following.  3.3. Continued Learning Finally, it’s important to continue learning and growing as a creative person. Take classes, attend workshops and conferences, and always be open to new ideas and opportunities.  Lastly: Making it as a Musician, Actor or Artist Making it as a musician, actor or artist is never easy, but it’s not impossible. By monetizing your craft, diversifying your income streams, and staying relevant and building your brand, you can succeed in the creative industry. So keep pushing, keep creating, and never give up on your dreams.

A new era of hope, opportunity, and empowerment has dawned in Gauteng as the Gauteng Gambling Board, Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, and Kellogg’s unite to launch the groundbreaking Black Starz Programme at the Kenneth Masekela Secondary School in KwaThema, Springs. This momentous event served as the catalyst for an extraordinary journey, showcasing the remarkable talent of township schools in Gauteng through thrilling cricket and volleyball matches. It was a celebration of sportsmanship, camaraderie, and the boundless potential that resides within the youth. Thabang Mabuza, the visionary force behind the Black Starz Programme, expressed his deep conviction in the power of collaboration: “Today, we witness the birth of a movement that transcends barriers and sparks true transformation. The partnership is a testament to our collective commitment to empower the youth and create a brighter future for all.” The Gauteng Gambling Board, a driving force behind community development, has thrown its full support behind the Black Starz Programme. With an unwavering dedication to promoting active participation in sports, cultural exchange, and youth empowerment, the Gauteng Gambling Board aims to nurture talent, unlock potential, and create an environment where dreams can flourish. Mabuza spoke passionately about their involvement, saying: “The Gauteng Gambling Board brings not only resources and expertise but also a deep sense of purpose. Together, we are igniting a flame of inspiration that will illuminate the path to a better tomorrow.” The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund, founded on the enduring values of Nelson Mandela himself, stands as a beacon of hope and inclusivity. Through their collaboration with the Black Starz Programme, they seek to celebrate the power of sports, instill a sense of pride within the community, and create a legacy that will inspire generations to come. Mabuza highlighted the significance of their partnership, stating, “The Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund embodies the spirit of unity and compassion. Together, we will unlock the potential that lies within each young individual, empowering them to become agents of change in their communities.” Kellogg’s, a global leader committed to social responsibility, has lent its support to the Black Starz Programme, recognizing its potential to create lasting change. With a mission to engage 1.5 billion people in the issue of global food security, Kellogg’s advocates on behalf of children facing hunger, ensures an ethical supply chain, and supports diversity and inclusion. Mabuza expressed his enthusiasm, saying: “Kellogg’s brings a wealth of expertise and resources to the table. Their commitment to sustainability, food security, and equity perfectly aligns with the goals of the Black Starz Programme. Together, we are creating a powerful force for change.” The Black Starz Programme marks the beginning of an extraordinary journey towards empowerment, unity, and community development in Gauteng. It symbolizes a movement where dreams are nurtured, talents are honed, and opportunities are created. Through their collective efforts, these sponsors are set to unleash a wave of transformation that will empower the youth, foster unity, and create a legacy of positive change in Gauteng. As the echoes of the Black Starz 2023 Knockout Cup resonate through the community, the impact of this collaboration becomes evident. The journey has just begun, and the Black Starz Programme is poised to embark on a remarkable path of growth, opportunity, and empowerment. According to Mabuza, all stakeholders agree that: “Together, we can achieve greatness. Our collaboration is a testament to the transformative power of unity and shared purpose. We are not only shaping the lives of young individuals but also laying the foundation for a better tomorrow. Through sports, we instill values, inspire dreams, and unlock the potential that lies within each and every one of us.” As the  Black Starz Programme continues to evolve, it will undoubtedly attract more partners, sponsors, and supporters who share the vision of transforming communities and empowering the youth. This groundbreaking initiative represents a turning point in Gauteng, where hope, opportunity, and empowerment flourish.

She Matters Movement, a transformative initiative founded by Tebogo Makola and Ursula Dlamini, continues to make waves in uplifting and empowering young girls and women. The movement, with a strong commitment to celebrating women regularly, organizes a series of inspiring events throughout the year. These events serve as safe spaces for women to embrace their true selves, share experiences, offer support, build connections, and engage in enlightening conversations with influential female figures from diverse industries. According to Tebogo Makola, Co-founder of She Matters Movement, “Our mission is to create an environment where women can wholeheartedly embrace their uniqueness, break free from societal constraints, and thrive in all aspects of life. We firmly believe that every woman matters and deserves to be celebrated.” Ursula Dlamini, Co-founder of She Matters Movement, adds, “Through our events, we strive to address critical issues that women face on a daily basis. Gender inequality, career challenges, freedom of expression, abuse, mental wellness, and more – these are topics that demand our attention and action. We aim to empower women to overcome these obstacles and realize their full potential.” The She Matters Movement events encompass a wide range of themes, including gender inequality, career advancement, mental and emotional wellness, finance, business, health, fitness, fashion, beauty, hygiene, relationships, and more. These thought-provoking discussions and interactive sessions equip women with valuable insights, knowledge, and resources to navigate the challenges they encounter. Building upon their previous successes, She Matters Movement is excited to announce their upcoming event, “Boss Up Self Love,” scheduled for the 9th of July. Under the captivating theme “Hues of Pine,” this event promises to be a transformative experience. Esteemed speakers, including Sam Lehoko, Bianca, Mbali Ubisi, and Nina Masuku, will share their wisdom and expertise, encouraging women to embrace self-love, confidence, and resilience. The movement’s inaugural event took place on the 30th of March 2019 at Plantation Café in Midrand, Johannesburg, and achieved resounding success. With 60 enthusiastic attendees and five inspiring speakers, the event focused on the theme “Love Yourself.” Rhonda Adams, Zandi Finca, Zinhle Masango, Thabisile M, and Dr. Nokukhanya Khanyile shared their personal journeys and expertise, encouraging women to embrace self-acceptance and reject societal expectations. She Matters Movement continued its impactful journey with a successful second event on the 29th of June 2019 at Green Garden Café in Broadacres & Fourways. Under the theme “Women In Business,” the event featured a vibrant market showcasing women entrepreneurs and their businesses. Attendees had the opportunity to network, make sales, and gain valuable insights from speakers Amina Williams, Tumi Chikita, Dr. Nokukhanya Khanyile, and Juanita Khumalo. Most recently, on the 5th of June 2021, the movement successfully organized its third event, “Coffee, Chill, and Chat,” at Plantation Café in Midrand, Johannesburg. With insightful talks from Mpoomy Ledwaba, Tshepi Mabs, Phemi Segoe, and Bealah Baduza, the event fostered meaningful conversations and provided a platform for women to engage and connect. To stay updated on the She Matters Movement’s journey and upcoming events, follow them on Instagram (@shematters_movement), Twitter (@SheMatters_SA), and Facebook (@SheMattersRSA). This movement continues to empower women, inspire change, and create a society where every woman’s voice is heard and valued.

Introduction: As an artist, securing funding can be a crucial step in advancing your creative career and realising your artistic visions. Fortunately, numerous organisations, foundations, and grant programs are dedicated to supporting artists financially. In this article, we have curated a list of ten essential links where artists can apply for funding. Whether you’re a painter, musician, dancer, writer, or any other creative professional, these resources can help you find the financial support you need to pursue your artistic endeavours. National Endowment for the Arts (NEA): The NEA is a prominent federal agency in the United States that supports various artistic disciplines. They offer grants to individual artists, arts organisations, and communities. Their website provides comprehensive information on grant opportunities, eligibility requirements, and application procedures. Website: https://www.arts.gov/ Creative Capital: Creative Capital is a nonprofit organisation that supports innovative and adventurous artists across different disciplines. They provide grants, professional development resources, and advisory services. Artists can apply for funding through their annual open application process. Website: https://creative-capital.org/ Kickstarter: Kickstarter is a renowned crowdfunding platform that allows artists to raise funds for their creative projects. It enables artists to connect with a global community of supporters who can contribute financially to their ventures. By creating a compelling campaign, artists can attract backers and reach their funding goals. Website: https://www.kickstarter.com/ Foundation for Contemporary Arts (FCA): The FCA offers grants to individual artists across a wide range of artistic disciplines, including visual arts, performance, music, and more. They prioritise funding projects that are experimental and contemporary in nature. Artists can apply for their Emergency Grants and unrestricted Grants to Artists programs. Website: https://www.foundationforcontemporaryarts.org/ Artist Relief: Artist Relief is a coalition of numerous arts organisations and funders who have come together to provide financial aid to artists affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. They offer unrestricted grants to support artists in various disciplines during times of crisis. Website: https://www.artistrelief.org/ Arts Council England: Arts Council England is the national development agency for the arts in England. They provide funding for artists, arts organisations, and cultural projects. Their website offers detailed information on funding opportunities, including grants, fellowships, and awards. Website: https://www.artscouncil.org.uk/ Canada Council for the Arts: The Canada Council for the Arts is a federal agency that supports artistic creation, innovation, and promotion in Canada. They offer grants and prizes to artists and arts organisations across the country. Their website provides comprehensive information on funding programs and application guidelines. Website: https://canadacouncil.ca/ The Pollock-Krasner Foundation: The Pollock-Krasner Foundation provides grants to visual artists worldwide, with a particular emphasis on painters and sculptors. They aim to support artists’ professional growth and development by providing financial assistance. Artists can apply for funding through their grant application process. Website: http://pkf.org/ Regional Arts Commissions: Many cities and regions have local arts commissions or councils that provide grants and funding opportunities for artists. These commissions aim to support and promote the arts within their communities. Search online for your regional arts commission or council to explore local funding possibilities. Private Foundations and Philanthropic Organisations: Numerous private foundations and philanthropic organisations offer grants and funding opportunities for artists. These organisations often focus on specific artistic disciplines or social issues. Research and identify foundations that align with your artistic practice or thematic interests, and explore their grant programs and application guidelines.

Understanding a contract before signing it is essential for musicians and artists. Learn why it is important to understand the details and terms of a contract before signing it.

In today’s digital age, the competition among brands is fierce. It’s essential for every brand to stand out in this crowded marketplace. But how do you make your brand memorable and unique? One of the key elements to make your brand stand out is to use the right tools. From graphic design tools to social media management and automation tools, you need to have the right set of tools to create a strong online presence. By selecting the right tools, you can increase your efficiency and productivity, which will ultimately help you focus on your core business. Another aspect of branding that can leave a lasting impact on your audience is marketing. The way you market your brand can make a huge difference in how it is perceived. Effective marketing strategies can help you reach your target audience and build a loyal customer base. A combination of traditional and digital marketing techniques can help you create a multi-channel approach that resonates with your audience. Graphics and images are also an integral part of branding. They help create a visual identity that sticks with your audience. It’s essential to create a consistent look and feel across all your branding materials, from logos to social media posts, to establish your brand’s identity. PR (public relations) is another vital component of branding. It helps create a positive image, enhances your brand’s reputation and builds trust. By crafting targeted messages for your audience, you can create a positive perception of your brand. Social media is an incredibly powerful tool in today’s world. Businesses can leverage social media to connect with their target audience, build relationships and increase brand awareness. By creating engaging content and responding to your followers, you can build a strong community around your brand. Finally, sustainability is a growing concern for many consumers. By adopting sustainable practices and communicating them to your audience, you can create a positive impact on the environment and earn the trust of your audience.

Money and art have always shared a complicated relationship. While creativity is at the heart of art, it’s essential to understand and manage one’s finances to guarantee long-term success. For musicians and artists, finding a balance between artistic pursuits and financial stability can be particularly challenging. In this article, we will explore strategies that can help those in the arts achieve financial success and build sustainable careers. Treat Your Art Like a Business The first step in ensuring financial success as an artist or musician is treating your craft like a business. This means being proactive about managing expenses, setting goals, and creating a plan for your career. Investing time in organizing your finances and establishing short- and long-term objectives can pay off with increased income and a more stable financial future. Diversify Your Income Streams Relying on one source of income can be risky for anyone, but particularly so for musicians and artists. Diversifying income streams can provide financial stability during periods of low demand or when opportunities are scarce. Some ways to do this include offering lessons or workshops, selling merchandise or prints, licensing music, or working on commission-based projects. Network and Collaborate Building relationships with fellow artists, musicians, and industry professionals is essential for learning new skills, gaining exposure to new audiences, and expanding one’s creative network. Collaborating with others not only helps improve your craft but can also lead to new income-generating opportunities. Invest in Marketing and Promotion Establishing an online presence through social media platforms, websites, podcasts or streaming services is critical for promoting your work to potential fans, clients or galleries. Creating compelling content that reflects your brand can not only help showcase your talents but also generate additional income through increased sales or commission requests. Manage Expenses Wisely As an artist or musician, controlling expenses is a key aspect of managing money. This means tracking all expenditures, such as materials or equipment costs, studio space rent, and travel expenses for gigs or exhibitions. By identifying areas where costs can be reduced or eliminated, artists can ensure their financial resources are being used to support their creative progress. Plan for the Future It’s never too early to start planning for your financial future. Establishing an emergency fund, saving for retirement or investing in assets can help protect musicians and artists from unforeseen events and provide financial security in the long run. Seek Professional Advice A mentor, financial adviser or accountant can provide invaluable guidance on financial planning and management. Seeking professional advice can help musicians and artists avoid common pitfalls, reduce debt and achieve their financial goals more effectively. Lastly Understanding one’s relationship with money as a musician or artist is essential for long-term success in the art world. By developing sound financial habits, diversifying income streams, networking effectively and investing in marketing and promotion efforts, individuals within the arts sector can achieve financial stability while pursuing