Bulelwa Basse
Bulelwa Basse is the visionary behind Lyrical Base Project, a notable organization dedicated to advancing the literary and performing arts. Focused on uplifting writers and performing artists from marginalized communities in South Africa, the project achieves this through community publishing initiatives and provides a platform for showcasing talents at corporate events, government functions, and local cultural gatherings.
In addition to her work with Lyrical Base Project, Bulelwa is the founder of Sisters in Solidarity South Africa, a transformative organisation empowering women across the nation. Through comprehensive Skills Development, Capacity Building Workshops, Career Development, and Financial Education Workshops, the organization equips women to navigate various aspects of life successfully. Bulelwa’s initiative, Sisters in Solidarity SA, actively engages South Africans in the art of managing finances effectively. Collaborating with financial experts, she imparts strategic budgeting and saving techniques, promoting self-empowerment and encouraging investments in families and communities.
Passionately dedicated to addressing the challenges faced by youth and women, Bulelwa endeavors to disseminate relevant information within rural areas, townships, and peri-urban communities, fostering community development. Her aspiration extends to traveling across the African continent, engaging communities, and establishing pathways toward self-sustainability. She firmly believes that collective community efforts to nurture available resources can serve as a global exemplar.
Furthermore, Bulelwa proudly holds the role of ambassador for Brand South Africa’s Play Your Part Initiative, embodying the ethos of making a difference within one’s means and context. While she cherishes her South African heritage, she envisions herself as a citizen of the world. Drawing inspiration from her Grandmother and mother, she advocates for mentorship and empowerment, impacting both the young and old.
Bulelwa’s literary contributions have found a home in esteemed platforms like the Poetry Institute of Africa, the University of KwaZulu Natal Press, Oprah Magazine, and publications supported by the Department of Arts and Culture. As a performing artist, she has collaborated with distinguished institutions including Arts Cape Theatre, British Council, Centre for the Book, the South African Museums, and the Steve Biko Foundation.
In her expansive career, Bulelwa has collaborated with various national and international community development organizations, literary establishments, and creative arts centers. Her versatility as a Writer, Performing Artist, Arts & Culture Activist/Ambassador, Artist Manager, Community Development Practitioner, Corporate MC/Programme Director, Project Director/Events Coordinator, and Language Facilitator has enabled her to serve as a mouthpiece for the important cause of 16 Days of Activism against Women and Children Abuse. Her impactful roles, often intertwined with guest speaking engagements, have enriched numerous communities with her philosophy—encouraging proactive involvement and inspiring ordinary lives to evolve into a empowered society.