Zakes Bantwini to headline Harvard panel on amapiano, cultural diplomacy

The event, titled A Cultural Export of Freedom, will take place at the CAS Lounge from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. EDT. It is framed as a cultural diplomacy dialogue examining how South African music reflects history, identity and social transformation.

“Amapiano is more than a genre, it is a movement, a narrative, and a bridge between generations,” Bantwini said. “To engage in this dialogue at Harvard is an opportunity to reframe how African culture is studied, experienced, and valued globally.”

According to organisers, the discussion will explore amapiano’s emergence from township culture and its evolution into a global music genre. The panel is expected to situate the sound within broader themes of post-apartheid identity and cultural expression.

The timing of the event coincides with several national milestones, including 30 years of South Africa’s Constitution, 50 years since the Soweto Uprising and 70 years since the Women’s March of 1956. These historical markers are expected to inform discussions around resistance, resilience and cultural memory.

Born Zakhele Madida, Bantwini has spent more than two decades working across Afro-house and dance music. He is known for tracks including ‘Clap Your Hands’, ‘Juju’, ‘Imali’, ‘Asanda’ and the global hit ‘Osama’.

His international performances have included appearances in cities such as New York and Ibiza, as well as festival platforms including AfrikaBurn and Burning Man.

In 2022, he won a Grammy Award for ‘Bayethe’, a collaboration with Wouter Kellerman and Nomcebo Zikode.

Since then, Bantwini has expanded his work beyond performance, including convening industry discussions during Grammy Week at the Grammy Museum focused on African music and the global entertainment economy.

He is also the founder of Mayonie Productions, a South African label and events company that has supported emerging artists and hosted live music events such as the sold-out Mayonie Open Air.

Beyond his music career, Bantwini is involved in youth development initiatives and serves as a UNICEF ambassador. He is also planning to formalise his philanthropic work through the launch of the Zakes Bantwini Foundation. He is a graduate of Harvard University’s Business of Entertainment, Media, and Sports programme.

The programme will include a panel discussion followed by a live performance, bringing together academic and cultural perspectives on the global influence of African music.

RSVP here.