The Pan-African Creative Exchange (PACE)

The International Institute of the Arts at the University of the Free State proposes the next phase of the Pan-African Creative Exchange (PACE), a flagship initiative that has been nurtured in partnership with the Vrystaat Arts Festival. Conceived to strengthen the presence of African creativity in global networks, PACE has become a recognised meeting point for artists, producers, funders, and cultural leaders from across Africa and around the world.

Africa is home to extraordinary creative talent, yet the continent contributes less than one percent to the global creative economy. PACE addresses this imbalance by offering a professional, curated space where African artists present tour-ready work, pitch new projects, and engage in critical dialogue with international peers. It provides opportunities for collaboration across disciplines including theatre, dance, music, literature, and visual art, while also creating pathways for research, professional development, and cultural diplomacy.

Previous editions of PACE have resulted in African productions touring to major international stages, long-term collaborations between African and international institutions, and the growth of sustainable networks that continue to support artists well beyond the event itself. These outcomes demonstrate the transformative capacity of PACE to expand markets, foster innovation, and build resilience within the creative industries.

The upcoming phase of PACE, hosted by the International Institute of the Arts, will strengthen and extend this impact. Through a hybrid model of live and digital programming, it will feature curated showcases, pitching forums, interdisciplinary labs, and networking opportunities, as well as a digital marketplace designed to ensure visibility and reach. By connecting artists to international presenters and peers, the initiative positions South Africa as a convener of global dialogue and a continental leader in the creative economy.