This year, the Jakes Gerwel Foundation (JGF) brings its highly popular Jakes Gerwel Commemoration Lecture to the same stage as the Jakes Gerwel Discussion series, which is held every year at Suidoosterfees, Artscape from 27 April to 1 May 2023.
The foundation is a proud partner of Suidoosterfees “which pursues social cohesion in a united South African society” – a festival which Professor Gerwel played a pivotal role in establishing.
In its 9th year, Jakes Gerwel Commemoration Lecture celebrates Professor Jakes Gerwel’s “rich legacy and his encouragement of innovative thought and sincere participation in conversation.” Every year high-profile speakers or writers are invited to present the Jakes Gerwel Lecture.
JGF executive director and award-winning author Theo Kemp says this year’s lecture is extra special as Dr Imtiaz Sooliman of Gift of the Givers is the guest speaker. “At this stage we need the words of a South African that shows us how we must all act in times of crises. Otherwise, we will dwell and drown in the misery of corruption and loadshedding and the abuse of power.”
With the Jakes Gerwel Discussion Series which began in 2018 with four talks, the foundation hosts a series of book discussions which “will appeal to all book lovers and those interested in robust discussions about relevant topics that affect our daily lives.
“Over the years, I am proud to say, we were able to grow and now have about 14 sessions. First, I think it is so wonderful to gather again – and without masks. The discussions are intimate and provide such a great platform for people to engage with writers, leading figures in South Africa and fellow citizens. It is a perfect opportunity to express your views on matters that involve all of us. But you don’t have to raise your voice, you can also just come and observe, and listen to the views of other people. If you are serious about living in South Africa, if you are interested in our politics and literature, this is the place to be. And it is for free plus a coffee!
“Writers are interesting people. Well, mostly. So, it is always unpredictable what happens on the stage during our talks! It is worthwhile because the discussions always offer some food for thought. You might laugh or cry, agree or annoyingly disagree, but you will not leave the venue without feeling and thinking something, and mostly in a way you did not think of it before.,” says Kemp.
What is close to Kemp’s heart since 2020 is welcoming back “JGF family members with their brand-new books” – these are writers who have participated in the foundation’s mentorship or residency programmes at Paulet House in Somerset East See www.jgf.org.za.
Since 2018, the discussion series have garnered quite a following and attendees reserve seats well advance which is “always nice to chat and catch up. And the cherry on the cake is when the old faces bring along new friends!”
“I have come to realise over the years that the attendees prefer non-fiction books to be discussed. Current affairs are the main meals on the menu. Having said that, fiction writers with new and different perspectives are also favorites.
“I think I sort of measure the success of the series by the heat levels! Robust discussions are important, but it remains important to always play the ball and not the man or woman. We want to create a safe space where no one’s opinion is valued more than the other. We may differ and arguing is not fighting, it is healthy, especially in the country where we live, and where the division is so huge. We don’t know what others think. And it is a great opportunity to bring people together in one venue with totally opposite views. But the underlying rule of the game is: mutual respect,” Kemp concludes.
Contact theo@jgf.org,za for interviews.
