The 22nd Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) is making history with an all-women leadership team at the helm, challenging long-standing gender stereotypes in the music industry. Under the visionary direction of Festival Head Shaakirah Adams, this iconic event- Africa’s largest and most prestigious jazz festival- showcases not only world-class performances but also the transformative power of female leadership.
Since its inception in 2000, the CTIJF has been a cultural cornerstone, and this year’s edition redefines its legacy by amplifying women’s voices both on and off the stage, signaling a new era of inclusivity and innovation in the jazz world. Being powered by women, Africa’s biggest jazz festival is not merely a musical event- but a powerful statement about women’s significance in the music industry.
CTIJF has historically been a platform for a wide range of local and international jazz artists, proving it integral to the global jazz space. This year’s festival, held on 25th and 26th of April, was no different and featured diversity in genre and appeal. Adams noted, “Festival goers will have access to 33 artists on four stages over two nights, including 10 international artists.”
The festival is a tremendous economic opportunity for the people of Cape Town, alongside being an integral musical experience. It drives visitors to the vibrant centre of the city and to Greenmarket Square, which is a significant reclaiming of a central space with a sombre past from the times of slavery.
“The CTIJF creates a lot of jobs. The economic spin-off is significant, particularly through the free concert in the heart of the city at Greenmarket Square. This area is revitalising not just economically, but spiritually – bringing people from all walks of life together to celebrate through song and dance,” Adams said.
The woman-led nature of this year’s CTIJF could inspire many women to take up leadership in the music industry, especially jazz. Adams added, “We are here to provide a platform that empowers artists, especially women in music.”
