The music industry has long been a notoriously male-dominated space, often sidelining the contributions and leadership of women.
However, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) - Africa's biggest and most legendary jazz event - is boldly challenging this stereotype by being powered exclusively by women.
As it embarks on its 22nd year, the festival stands not merely as a musical event but as a movement and a powerful statement of women's prowess within the industry.
Under the dynamic leadership of Shaakirah Adams and her formidable team, the festival is not just maintaining its legacy but actively evolving it.
This revolutionary all-female leadership is rewriting the rules in a space traditionally ruled by men, ushering in a new era that champions creativity and resilience.
The CTIJF has consistently attracted incredible talent from the realms of jazz, soul, and contemporary music, consistently delivering stellar line-ups and unforgettable experiences.
However, this year promises to be particularly special. The all-women team is infusing the festival with fresh energy, strategic creativity, and an unyielding passion that promises to elevate the event to new heights.
This evolution isn’t just about changing the guard; it’s about amplifying the festival’s impact on the community and its role in shaping the cultural landscape of South Africa.
As festival-goers prepare for this year’s exciting line-up filled with both internationally renowned artists and emerging talent, the anticipation continues to build.
With a vision focused on inclusivity, creativity, and the relentless celebration of jazz, CTIJF under Adams’ leadership is positioned not only to thrill its audience but also to inspire future generations of female leaders in music.
In an interview with “Independent Media Lifestyle”, Adams expressed a mix of excitement and nerves as the countdown to the festival intensified.
“I’m feeling anxious … It’s crunch time now, but I have no doubt my amazing team will pull it off,” she stated.
Despite her pre-festival jitters, her confidence in her team speaks volumes about the collaborative spirit that defines this year’s CTIJF.
“I've met a phenomenal team of strong women that I learn from every day. I’m honoured to work with them. Half of the team members have worked on the festival before. When we start something, we won’t stop until it’s done,” she said.
Adams also highlighted the significance of having women leading every aspect of the festival, from logistics to production, sponsorship, finance, marketing, and media.
“It’s not inexperienced women; it’s strong women.”
She noted that approximately 95% of the festival has been put together by women, showcasing the depth of talent among women in the events space.
The CTIJF not only aims to be a phenomenal musical experience but also aspires to positively impact the local community.
By creating numerous job opportunities and drawing visitors to the vibrant heart of Cape Town, the festival breathes new life into local businesses.
Adams noted that the festival is a "gift to the citizens of Cape Town", delving into the historical significance of Greenmarket Square, which served as a site of sombre pasts during slavery, now transforming into a space of celebration and unity.
“The CTIJF creates a lot of jobs. The economic spin-off is significant, particularly through the free concert in the heart of the city at Greenmarket Square. This area is revitalising not just economically, but spiritually - bringing people from all walks of life together to celebrate through song and dance,” she said.
This year’s festival promises something truly special for attendees.
“Festival goers will have access to 33 artists on four stages over two nights, including 10 international artists,” Adams noted, proudly detailing the diverse line-up.
Highlights on the line-up include international stars alongside beloved local acts, ensuring diversity in genre and appeal for seasoned festival-goers and newcomers alike.
Attendees can expect performances from artists like TKZee, Masego, Incognito, Linda Sikhakhane, Black Coffee and Nduduzo Makhathini, The Ploemies, Muneeb Hermans, and Lira, just to name a few, spanning spiritual jazz to trap house genres from across the globe.
Moreover, the festival enhances the experience with a delightful array of food trucks and hospitality sections, poised to tantalise the taste buds.
With such an immersive experience, attendees will not only enjoy top-tier performances but be part of a cultural phenomenon resonating with Cape Town's jazz heritage.
“Apart from the artists; the fact that we women are running this event, the jobs created during this time, and the position of Cape Town as the city of jazz is simply amazing."
"The CTIJF is regarded as Africa's Grandest Gathering and the fourth largest jazz festival in the world,” Adams concluded with pride.
For many artists, this festival has been a stepping stone in their careers - affirming its central role within the global jazz scene.
When asked about the festival's future, Adams reflected on the potential for continued growth, stating, “We are here to provide a platform that empowers artists, especially women in music.”
CTIJF 2025 is scheduled for Friday, April 25, and Saturday, April 26, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC).
Tickets are available at Ticketmaster.co.za. For more information, visit capetownjazzfest.com, download the CTIJF Festival App, and follow @officialcapetownjazzfest on social media for exclusive content, artist takeovers, and behind-the-scenes moments.