For artists, filmmakers,
musicians, writers, researchers
Amathongo (isiZulu for “community of ancestral counsel” and Runyakitara for an ancient place of belonging, origins, memory) is a residency in the heart of the diverse historical activist neighborhood of Kensington, Johannesburg. Our intergenerational community of artists, filmmakers, writers, and conscious internationalists crosses generations with intention. Contact us to inquire about staying with us — to find respite, to work on your craft, or a combination of both.
“This residency has offered the stillness in which to reflect, rediscover myself, and begin shaping a new path—not only as a musician, but as a creative worker.
During my six-month exploration of the audio properties of water and the bass guitar, Amathongo has given me the freedom and space to imagine my work beyond artistic expression. Work that speaks to a greater purpose and contributes positively to humanity.
This space is more than a residency; it is a place to reconnect with myself, find clarity amidst community, and cultivate the kind of creative practice I believe in—one rooted in originality, authenticity, and meaningful contribution to the world.”
—Molefi Makananise, musician, climate activist, bassist of Blk Jks
Residency Programs
Training Services
Open Calls
Our approach
The Amathongo community follows an ACAB system:
Afrofuturism for all: we don’t police imaginations — now is the right historical moment for every human’s imagination and dreaming to burgeon
Commoning: each and every being is allowed and encouraged to contribute dreams, ideas, time, energy, and resources to the whole as they are able
Anarcha-feminism: decisions and care should be as humanistic and horizontal as we are able
Borderlessness: the relics of colonialism should not interfere with hospitality, belonging, and community
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