Ses'fikile: The Party Has Arrived

SM: I helped organise the Siyabangena art fair after party in 2022. After the first event, the team disbanded and we all went our separate ways. That's when I decided to start something new, with a new name and approach. I launched Ses'fikile in September 2022, but I wasn't happy with the branding or the event artwork. I felt it was rushed and not very convincing, but I put it out anyway. A couple months later, I contacted artist Sinalo Ngcaba and told her my idea for an event artwork. She totally understood what I was going for and killed it! That's when I decided to reintroduce Ses'fikile in February 2023 as the go-to art fair after party in Cape Town.

SM: The name is 100% South African, born from kwaito, because I love this country and its quirks too much. I'm always inspired here. The event name actually came from me thinking of a song name that could best describe the feeling of pulling up with all the homies to the biggest party in a minibus taxi - which is exactly how I felt when a few of my friends and I hired a minibus taxi to Rocking the Daisies last year!

SM: Our event is dierent from other parties in a few ways. First, we have a diverse lineup of performers, including both local and national acts. For example, we have a listening room for music lovers where you can chill out and listen to old, new, and rare records. We've also booked a live band to make the experience even better.

Second, our venue is unique and oers a great atmosphere for a party. We're working with Botanik to create a party within a party, with a main stage, an Annex Room, and a Listening Room. There's something for everyone at our event.

Third, we're not interested in catering to the rich and famous. With Ses'fikile, we want to create a party space where everyone feels welcome, regardless of their income. We're not going to prioritise experiences that only appeal to people who can aord to spend a lot of money.

Ses'fikile is more than just a party. If we do it right and stick to our founding ideas and principles, we have the opportunity to create a space where people can connect and build community. We're humbled by the support and pride that our community has shown for Ses'fikile parties. It means a lot to us, and it makes us believe that we're doing something that people want to be a part of. We're excited to think about our space in relation to the community and how we can meet its needs.

SM: First, I think about what genres I want to highlight. For Ses’fikile, I'm going with gqom, house, amapiano, and kwaito, which is the mother of all these genres. I try to find a healthy balance of these sounds throughout the night, and I also consider music that's good for listening and just for fun.

I always try to book DJs who don't get booked as often, maybe because they're not popular on social media or don't know enough people in the city. I also look for DJs who are part of music collectives or are involved in organising events. That way, I know I'm dealing with people who are passionate about building their respective communities.

I also have a team now that I consult with to get their thoughts on who we should book for the event. It's always nice to chat about music with them!

SM: My favourite song to dance/play changes every week, but I was jamming to Nana Thula by Kabza de Small, Njelic, Young Stunna and Maphorisa this

morning. It's definitely my go-to song when I'm chilling at home cleaning and thinking.

SM: No matter what people’s backgrounds, race, identities, standard of living etc a good time, music, dance and friends are a great way to come together and just enjoy life even if it’s for a night. It’s a magical therapeutic experience when practised the right way.

SM: I think the best party is one where people can let loose, be themselves while being excited to connect and learn from others. It's a place that arms that you are more than your troubles; giving you the opportunity to celebrate and enjoy moments of pleasure.

Ses'fikile is a great example of a party that embodies all of these things. It's a place where people can come together and celebrate life, friendship, and culture. If you're looking for a party that will make you feel alive, then Ses'fikile is the place for you.

SM: Cape Town is a beautiful and diverse city, but some experiences are often kept in the periphery. Ses'fikile is significant because it brings these experiences to the forefront and celebrates the city's diversity. It's a chance for black youth to co-create amazing memories, share ideas, have a good time, and it's a powerful reminder that Cape Town is a city for everyone.

SM: The event has definitely changed since the beginning of the year. I started out collaborating with A11 and Crayons, but a couple months later I decided to go a dierent route. I wanted to do things my own way and work with a team of people I see regularly and more often. These are people who know me well, and we hang out in the same places. And, of course, we all love music.

SM: This is a hard one to answer, you just gotta be there, you know !

SM: I hope people take away a few things from the event. First, I hope they have fun. Second, I hope they are inspired and learn something new about themselves. Third, I hope they connect with others and build a community.

SM: When I'm not hosting Ses'fikile, I'm working on my photography. I've got a solo exhibition up at the Waterfront for a year, and I'm working on my first photo book. I'm also a signed model with Boss Models, so if I'm not taking pictures, I'm getting paid to pose! Haha

SM: I can't wait to see everyone try to out-dress each other! Last time, our attendees really dressed to the nines. I also can't wait to hug my friends at the end of the night and say thank you! We did it, and we're gonna do it again!

SM: My go to drink on a night out would definitely be Jagermeister with Redbull and a bottle of sparkling water on the side.