The National School of the Arts (NSA) in Braamfontein hosted the Jazz for Young People (J4YP) festival, a platform for emerging South African artists to showcase their creativity.

Organized by young people for young people, the event blended live jazz performances with fashion, photography, and visual art, creating an immersive cultural experience.

The festival, held in partnership with Standard Bank Joy of Jazz, featured a curated line-up by award-winning artist Msaki, who also conducted workshops on creativity and entrepreneurship.J4YP, first launched in 2024, aims to nurture the next generation of jazz talent, inspired by NSA alumnus Mpumi Dhlamini.

Artistic Director Brenda Sakellarides highlighted the students' unrestricted creativity, emphasizing their role as pioneers of South African culture.

The event also marked the 50th anniversary of the Soweto Uprising, with participants drawing parallels between historical struggles for freedom and contemporary artistic expression.Proceeds support NSA's facilities and equipment, ensuring continued investment in youth talent.

This annual event has become a key fixture in Johannesburg's cultural calendar, offering a stage for emerging artists before they gain national recognition.