Business and Arts South Africa (BASA) has appointed Beth Arendse as its new Chief Executive Officer, with her tenure set to begin on 1 July 2025.
BASA, a leading organisation that connects business and the arts in South Africa, said Arendse brings more than 25 years of experience in the creative and cultural industries. She is widely recognised for her work in empowering young creatives, promoting arts education, and supporting innovation in the sector.
According to BASA’s statement on Monday, Arendse is expected to bring “visionary insight, strategic leadership, and an unwavering commitment to inclusive growth” as she takes the reins of the organisation at a critical time in the country’s development journey.
Beth Arendse is well-known in South Africa’s creative circles. Over the years, she has founded several key programmes that have shaped the lives of many young artists. Some of her most recognised initiatives include the Tshwane School of Music, the South African Creative Industries Incubator (SACII), and the Music Business Lab.
These platforms have helped hundreds of emerging talents build real-world skills in music, digital arts, and business. They also provide access to markets and industry networks, giving young creatives a better chance of making a living from their work.
Apart from her work with youth and grassroots initiatives, Arendse has also served on high-level advisory bodies such as the Presidential Commission on the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and the National Advisory Council on Innovation. Through these roles, she has contributed to shaping national policy to help the creative sector adapt to technology and changing global trends.
Speaking on her appointment, Zingisa Motloba, Chairperson of the BASA Board, praised Arendse for her “entrepreneurial spirit” and her “innovative approach to both challenges and opportunities.”
“In the rigorous process of identifying a CEO, we were spoilt for choice by the calibre of candidates we had the opportunity to interact with,” said Motloba. “However, Beth’s undeniable passion for the creative industries and her long-standing impact in the sector made her the standout candidate. We are excited to be taking this next step with her.”
Arendse takes up the position at a pivotal moment for BASA, as the organisation sets new goals to further integrate the creative economy into South Africa’s national development strategy. Under her leadership, BASA hopes to make the arts a strong economic and cultural driver in the country.
Arendse, in her first remarks as incoming CEO, said she was both honoured and excited.
“I step into this role with a deep belief in the power of the creative economy to shape South Africa’s future—not only to inspire, but to generate jobs, create opportunities, and unlock our country’s full economic potential,” she said.
“I look forward to leading BASA into a bold new chapter, working hand-in-hand with artists, businesses, government and civil society to drive progress through culture.”
BASA was founded in 1997 as a joint effort between government and private sector stakeholders to encourage more corporate involvement in the arts. Over the years, it has become a respected platform that bridges the gap between art, commerce and development.
With Arendse’s appointment, stakeholders in the creative industry believe BASA is well-positioned to amplify the voice of artists, boost economic growth, and support policies that promote creativity as a core part of the economy.
