Itai Hakim

Itai Hakim is a multidisciplinary musician and performance poet whose work transforms folklore into a contemporary, socially resonant art form. Rooted in the languages and sonic traditions of Tshivenda and Xitsonga, his compositions blend intricate finger-style and traditional folk plucking with the improvisatory textures of Afro-blues and indie jazz.

The result is a distinctive folk-soul sound intimate, agile, and forward-thinking that resists easy categorization while remaining deeply accessible.

As a live performer, Itai curates experiences that weave together music, spoken word, and storytelling. His performances invite audiences into reflective spaces where emotion and intellect meet, often addressing pressing social and environmental themes. His commissioned appearances at civic and cultural events  including the Climate Solutions Forum 2025 have been celebrated for their transformative impact.

Collaborating with cultural institutions, NGOs, corporate partners, and creative producers, Itai designs bespoke performances, keynote openings, and collaborative works that translate complex ideas into human-centred narratives. He is available for festivals, commissions, workshops, panel dialogues, and interdisciplinary projects that seek artistic depth, cultural authenticity, and civic resonance.