“Infectious energy”, “deeply self-aware” and “broad intellect” are just some of the adjectives I can use to describe Boitumelo “Tumy” Motsoatsoe. She has a list of accolades and a resume that many of us can only hope for. If you watched this incredible woman speak in this week’s Imbokodo Stan Live, you know that this is just the beginning.
In 2017, Tumy won the BASA Award for Cultural Leadership and Management in the Cultural Economy. She was also named on the Mail and Guardian 200 Young South Africans list for arts and entertainment. Furthermore, Tumy serves on the board of the Pan African Youth Network for a Culture of Peace as the Southern African regional coordinator and Arterial Network South Africa. And if you think that is impressive, Tumy was also selected as one of the international fellows for the Chevening Clore Leadership program.
Winning Attitude
When speaking to Pat On Brands’ Mpumi Satsha, Tumy recollects how she did not think she would occupy the space she is in. She studied Dramatic Arts at the University of the Witwatersrand. It was at this point that she realized her love for storytelling. However, it was not until she went to study a master’s degree in Cultural Policy and Management that she learned about the business side of the arts.
Tumy currently works as BASA’s Head of Programmes and Development and describes the organization as “a creative platform for creatives”. BASA is a hub for creatives to hone their craft and build themselves as brands.
Be intentional
When asked to give advice to young creatives, Tumy shares that having a clear reference for your dreams is imperative. Choose people and organizations that you see your own value in. Absorb from them what you aspire to be and work hard at it.
Tumy is a multi-faceted Queen. A storyteller and intellectual. “My story is about someone who is curious about expansion, being multi-dimensional. What else can I do? What talents do I have and how can I bring them together to change the narrative and make a meaningful impact in our sector.”
Watch the full sit down here and be inspired by this undeniable Mbokodo.
