A Global Milestone for a South African Creative Visionary
Grammy Award-winning artist and cultural entrepreneur Zakes Bantwini has officially completed the Business of Entertainment, Media and Sports (BEMS) executive education at Harvard Business School, cementing his place among an elite class of international creative industry leaders.
Harvard’s Elite Program Shapes the Future of Global Entertainment
Held in Boston, USA, the BEMS program is tailored for top-tier professionals in entertainment, media, and sports. It convenes global icons, CEOs, and innovators for an intensive leadership journey led by Harvard’s distinguished faculty—developing leaders who redefine the business of culture.
A Journey Delayed, But Not Derailed
Initially selected for the program in 2020, Bantwini’s attendance was postponed due to the global COVID-19 pandemic. Demonstrating resilience and dedication, he reapplied and was re-accepted—an honour reserved for the most forward-thinking professionals in the creative industries.
South Africa’s Creative Vanguard on the World Stage
Bantwini’s graduation is not only a personal triumph but a significant moment for South Africa’s cultural presence globally. As a key architect of the African creative renaissance, he continues to serve as a bridge between local innovation and global opportunity.
“African Creatives Belong Everywhere”
“Completing this program at Harvard is more than a personal achievement; it’s a powerful statement about where African creatives belong: in every global conversation, in every boardroom, and at every table where the future is being shaped,”
said Bantwini.
Joining a Rarefied Global League of Industry Leaders
With this milestone, Bantwini now joins a select group of global executives and artists who are shaping culture while redefining the frameworks of entertainment business. His inclusion in this league solidifies his role as a global tastemaker and changemaker.
A New Chapter for the Zakes Bantwini Foundation
Armed with world-class knowledge and a powerful network, Bantwini plans to further uplift the African creative economy. The Zakes Bantwini Foundation will launch new initiatives including a sports division and a “Business of Music” program aimed at fostering sustainable industry growth and global collaboration.
From Platinum Records to Harvard Halls—Zakes Bantwini Leads the Way
From GRAMMY wins to platinum hits, Zakes Bantwini’s journey has always fused artistry with impact. With his latest Harvard credential, he is poised to deepen his influence and empower a new generation of African creatives to step onto the world stage.
