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The Long Table creates space for dialogue, art and cultural exchange at George Festival

Video link: https://youtu.be/Kl3iLFE-AAg

The Long Table initiative as part of the George Festival that included, arts, sports and culture, provided a vibrant platform at the George Museum on Monday 15 December, for open conversation, shared experiences and creative expression, as artists and community members from George and surrounding areas came together to exchange ideas, stories and perspectives.

According to Rachel Williams, Manager: George Libraries, the event encouraged dialogue through discussion, demonstrations, dancing and singing, creating an inclusive space where diversity and creativity were celebrated.

Ministers Ivan Meyer and Ricardo McKenzie addressed attendees and shared valuable insights on the importance of engaging with one another through meaningful conversation. They emphasised that the sharing of ideas and opinions plays a critical role in building understanding, mutual respect and social cohesion within communities.

Poets Mandy Rose Naidoo and Thabo Leholo captivated the audience with heartfelt performances that reflected their love, inspiration and sense of wonder for the Outeniqua Mountains. Their poetry highlighted the strong connection between art, place and identity. Ruby Marks, a well-known figure with a deep understanding of George, shared biographical stories from her travels around the world and reflected on her life and work as an ambassador, offering personal perspectives that resonated with many attendees.

The Executive Mayor of George, Ald Browen Johnson, underscored the importance of festivals such as these, noting their role in promoting art, books and poetry as vital tools for learning, expression and community development. The mayor highlighted that creative platforms contribute to a vibrant, inclusive city and strengthen George’s cultural landscape.

Adding a unique cultural dimension to the event, Khoisan elder Neil ‘Dikwex’ Edwin Carelse constructed and showcased a traditional Khoisan hut. Visitors were invited to experience head massages and learn about various medicinal plants, which were supplied by the Garden Route Botanical Garden. This interactive display provided insight into indigenous knowledge systems and traditional healing practices.

The Long Table successfully brought together voices from different backgrounds, reinforcing the value of dialogue, creativity and cultural heritage in building a connected and respectful community in George.

Photos:

Cllr Melvin Roelfse, MMC Social Development (Libraries, Sport and Customer Care), Honourable Ricardo Mackenzie, Provincial Minister of Cultural Affairs and Sport and Ald Browen Johnson, Executive Mayof of George, Ald Browen Johnson enthralled by the speakers at the Long Table event.

Attendees at the Long Table event.

Attendees at the Long Table event.

Attendees at the Long Table event.

Ruby Marks addresses the attendees at the Long table event, part of the George Festival.


Rachel Williams, Manager: George Libraries and poet, Mandy Rose Naidoo at the Long Table.