Panel of the day Henry Mathys @henrymathys Henry is an independent strategist, currently completing his studies in business management and strategy. Until recently, he was part of The V&A Waterfront management team, leading a team responsible for the implementation of socio-economic development programmes across the V&A property with the specific emphasis on providing new economic opportunities, job creation and lowering barriers to enter the market for small enterprises. He also previously ran the V&A’s placemaking and art in public places portfolio, working with contemporary artists such as Michele Mathisson, Nadia “Nardstar” Fisher and Victor Ehikamenor. He currently serves on the board of The Craft & Design Institute, served as the chair of the Africa Shared Value Initiative’s South African working group, and is a founding member of The Cape Town Public Space Network. He is passionate about social inclusion, heritage, the creative arts, youth entrepreneurship and shared value. Johnny Allison @johnny1allison Johnny Allison is a distinguished painter, artist, and illustrator, renowned for his expertise in large-scale murals. Holding a Bachelor’s degree in Graphic Design, Johnny has collaborated with some of the world’s most iconic brands, including Chicken Licken, Coca-Cola, Absa, Jameson, Diesel, and Sony Music. His dynamic portfolio reflects a versatile mastery that seamlessly adapts to various mediums, consistently delivering captivating and thought-provoking imagery. In 2023, Johnny’s remarkable talent was recognized as he was named an Emerging Creative by Design Indaba, a testament to his growing influence in the creative industry. Marco Morgan A versatile city planner and urbanist with more than 17 years of experience in urban planning, policy development, programme development and management as well as stakeholder engagement and facilitation. Having worked extensively and across varied sectors of both public and private, including infrastructure planning, spatial planning, mobility, culture and creative industries and community development, his broad work experience has equipped him with a deep understanding and skillset for navigating complexity. Marco’s work has not been limited to the realm of officialdom and he has worked in different capacities with various organizations and initiatives, such as the Development Action Group, Economic Development Partnership, Solve, National Skate Collective, Open Streets Cape Town and Creative Nestlings, in striving to improve the urban development model, pushing for more inclusive and culturally sensitive methods of urban development and governance. Nonka Mbonambi @itsnonka Nonka Mbonambi is a Johannesburg-based visual artist, curator, and muralist, as well as the Managing Director of Creative Nestlings Foundation and the founder of Curatica. As a curator, Mbonambi harnesses the power of art to tell compelling stories and provoke thought. At Curatica, she seeks out artists whose work resonates with themes of womanhood, motherhood, and creativity, aiming to create a platform where women can share their experiences and inspire others. With a wealth of experience in visual arts and curation, Nonka excels in project management, event planning, and strategic oversight. Her expertise includes painting, drawing, and effective communication. She has a proven track record in delivering successful exhibitions, murals, and events. Additionally, she serves on the Governance, HR, and Legal Committee of the Council of National Museums, providing strategic guidance on governance, human resources, and legal matters.
