The fifth iteration of the Live Event Technical and Production Conference (LETPC), held at the Sunnyside Hotel in Parktown Johannesburg between 15 and 18 May, has again cemented the event as a seminal platform to drive the industry forward.
Established in 2015 by the South African Roadies Association (SARA), LETPC has evolved into one of the most important platforms for those involved in the technical entertainment industry to gather and share ideas, network and learn new skills.
Speaking to ETECH in an interview during the event, SARA president, Freddie Nyathela explained that LETPC provides a critical opportunity to explore the ways that the technical entertainment industry can support the Government’s key development goals, including job creation, skills development and embracing the demands of the fourth industrial revolution. “Our youth are talented, and they are desperate for opportunities to learn skills that will enable them to gain financial independence. Training and mentorship in the live entertainment technical field present young people with a viable career path, critical technical skills and the opportunity to fulfil their potential,” Nyathela points out.
The National Department of Arts and Culture acknowledges the contribution the live entertainment technical and production sector can make with regards to addressing the youth unemployment crisis that we are facing as a country, and therefore continues to support LETPC.
“The Live Event Technical and Production Conference 2019 occurs at a critical time in the development and growth of sector skill demand in a market place set upon by the 4th industrial revolution and digital economy including AI, robotics and machine learning that is set to decimate employment opportunities in many sectors. The conference aims to discuss training and skill development for professionals and practitioners within the events, technical, production and education sectors sustainable job creation and economic growth,” South African Department of Arts and Culture.
The LETPC 2019 has attracted speakers, panellists and attendees from across live event technical production and performance sectors, as well as from education, skills development and professional bodies. Notwithstanding South Africa, countries featured this year include Kenya, Ghana, Netherlands, UK, USA, Denmark, Nigeria and Germany.
Some of the topics explored during the three-day programme included the Inclusion of the Event, Technical & Production Sector in the White Paper, On The road: where we were, where we are and where we are going, The State of Technical and Production Skills and Services in Kenya, Educational Standard as well as a range of technical discussions.
“I am pleased to report that after years of struggle, we are finally receiving much-needed support and acknowledgement from government,” states Nyathela. “Finally, the Revised White Paper on Arts, Culture and Heritage, currently under review, includes the events, technical and production sector – and I am hoping that we will see more political will to drive development and create opportunities for our youth in the near future,” Nyathela concludes.
