{"id":43802,"date":"2026-10-30T13:35:38","date_gmt":"2026-10-30T11:35:38","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/?p=43802"},"modified":"2026-10-30T13:35:40","modified_gmt":"2026-10-30T11:35:40","slug":"avijozi-2026-free-johannesburg-festival","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/avijozi-2026-free-johannesburg-festival\/","title":{"rendered":"AVIJOZI 2026: Free Film, Animation and VFX Festival Comes to Johannesburg on 31 October"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AVIJOZI 2026 takes place on Saturday, 31 October 2026, at VRtuosus, eMedia Holdings, 5 Summit Road, Hyde Park, Johannesburg, bringing together professionals and emerging talent from South Africa&#8217;s creative industries. The free festival runs from 09:00 to 18:00 according to its ticket listing, with registration required for visitors. Through industry discussions, masterclasses, exhibitions and creative demonstrations, the event offers Gauteng residents an opportunity to explore careers and developments in film, animation, visual effects and digital storytelling.<\/p><div id=\"gaute-1714073929\" class=\"gaute-after-paragraph-1 gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Under the theme <strong>Pulse of Change<\/strong>, AVIJOZI 2026 explores the relationship between technology, artificial intelligence and creativity, with a programme featuring actors, filmmakers, writers, technical specialists and creative entrepreneurs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The festival is aimed at established professionals, students and anyone interested in understanding how visual content is developed, produced and brought to audiences.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/soweto-derby-2026-kick-off-time\/\"><strong>ALSO READ: Soweto Derby 2026: Pirates vs Chiefs Kick Off Time, Where to Watch and League Standings<\/strong><\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AVIJOZI 2026 Date, Time, Venue and Ticket Details<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AVIJOZI returns to Johannesburg with a one day programme covering several areas of the screen production industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here are the key event details:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Event:<\/strong> AVIJOZI 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Date:<\/strong> Saturday, 31 October 2026<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Time:<\/strong> 09:00 to 18:00, according to the ticket listing<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Venue:<\/strong> VRtuosus, eMedia Holdings<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Address:<\/strong> 5 Summit Road, Hyde Park, Johannesburg<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Theme:<\/strong> Pulse of Change<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Admission:<\/strong> Free, registration required<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Tickets:<\/strong><a href=\"https:\/\/tickets.avijozi.com\/e\/2\/avijozi\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\"> FREE<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visitors are encouraged to register before attending and consult the official programme for individual session times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Is AVIJOZI 2026?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><a href=\"https:\/\/avijozi.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">AVIJOZI <\/a>is a creative industry festival designed to connect professionals, technicians, producers and emerging talent working across screen production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Its focus extends beyond traditional film screenings to the skills, technology and processes involved in creating visual entertainment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The festival covers animation, visual effects, filmmaking, digital arts and related creative disciplines.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It also brings together professionals whose work overlaps across gaming, storytelling, production technology and digital media.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">By combining industry discussions with practical learning opportunities, AVIJOZI introduces visitors to both the artistic and technical aspects of the creative economy.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Free admission makes the event accessible to students, aspiring creatives and members of the public interested in exploring these industries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-12473015\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Pulse of Change: AVIJOZI 2026 Explores AI and Creativity<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The 2026 festival theme, Pulse of Change, focuses on how technology and artificial intelligence are influencing creative production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The programme explores developments affecting storytelling, animation, filmmaking and digital content creation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">These discussions are particularly relevant as creative professionals increasingly work with digital production tools and emerging technologies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AVIJOZI brings together people working in different parts of the industry to examine how artistic skills and technical expertise contribute to screen production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The theme also creates space for conversations about the changing skills required in creative careers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Film, Animation and Visual Effects Take Centre Stage<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Animation remains one of AVIJOZI&#8217;s central areas of focus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The festival introduces visitors to different animation techniques, including stop motion, traditional animation and three dimensional digital environments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visual effects is another major subject, covering the creation of computer generated characters, environments and imagery used in screen productions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Film production sessions explore the work of directors, producers, screenwriters, cinematographers, production designers and other specialists.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Together, these disciplines illustrate the range of skills required to produce films, television programmes and digital entertainment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For visitors unfamiliar with the industry, the festival provides an opportunity to understand how different production departments work together.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AVIJOZI 2026 Speakers Include Leading South African Creatives<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The announced speaker lineup features professionals from television, film, literature, music, animation and digital production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Actors S&#8217;dumo Mtshali, Gugu Gumede, Thabo Rametsi, Bonko Khoza and Zikhona Sodlaka are among the names associated with the programme.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Award winning author Sue Nyathi, writer Busisiwe Zwane and filmmaker Rolie Nikiwe are also included.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Other participants include Gugu Zuma-Ncube, cofounder and creative producer at Stained Glass TV, and film and television producer Layla Swart.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Music and screen composition are represented by Zwai Bala and Zethu Mashika.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Technical industry speakers include Nosipho Maketo van den Bragt, Chief Executive Officer of Chocolate Tribe, alongside the company&#8217;s Chief Creative Officer Rob van den Bragt and Chief Technical Officer Tiaan Franken.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Avuzwa Ntshongwana, founder of South Game Studio, and Jess Alexander, an associate lecturer in the Wits Digital Arts Department, are also among the announced participants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visitors should consult the final programme to confirm individual speaker appearances and session times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-12473015\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Masterclasses, Panels and Creative Activities<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AVIJOZI 2026 includes a programme of masterclasses, demonstrations, industry discussions and practical creative activities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The supplied event information identifies pitching sessions and portfolio reviews among the planned opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Featured discussions include a session involving the cast and crew of The Polygamist, alongside conversations about animation development and music in film.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A programme focused on building a distinct sonic identity brings together professionals working across music and screen production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The festival also features an exhibition component where visitors can engage with different areas of the creative industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A Halloween themed cosplay competition with an advertised R3,000 prize forms part of the supplied programme information. Visitors interested in participating should confirm the competition rules and entry requirements with organisers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Opportunities for Students and Emerging Creatives<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AVIJOZI provides exposure to career paths that extend beyond acting and directing.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Students interested in animation can learn about artistic techniques, digital production and technical specialisation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Aspiring filmmakers can explore the responsibilities of writers, producers, directors and production crews.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The participation of studio executives, educators and creative entrepreneurs also introduces visitors to the business side of the industry.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Masterclasses, portfolio reviews and discussions may help attendees understand professional expectations and identify skills they want to develop.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">However, participation does not guarantee employment, internships or business opportunities.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">AVIJOZI 2026 Parking and Transport Information<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visitors travelling to Hyde Park are encouraged to plan their journeys before the event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">According to the supplied event guidance, organisers recommend considering e-hailing services such as Uber or Bolt because parking near the venue is limited.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The recommended e-hailing drop-off point is listed as <strong>2 Albury Road<\/strong>, rather than the main venue address on Summit Road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visitors using private vehicles should confirm parking arrangements before travelling, as reserved on-site access is prioritised.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those using e-hailing services should verify the recommended drop-off location through the latest organiser instructions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-12473015\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What This Means for Gauteng Residents<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For Gauteng residents, AVIJOZI 2026 offers access to a creative industry gathering without a general admission fee.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Its Johannesburg location makes it particularly relevant to students, aspiring filmmakers, animators, digital artists and people interested in screen production careers.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The programme provides exposure to established industry professionals and the technical disciplines involved in producing visual content.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It also introduces visitors to developments in artificial intelligence, animation technology and creative entrepreneurship.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For young people considering careers in media and entertainment, the event offers an opportunity to learn about different occupations and the skills associated with them.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How to Register for Free AVIJOZI 2026 Tickets<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visitors can register through the official AVIJOZI ticketing platform at tickets.avijozi.com.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The festival is advertised as free, although registration is required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Attendees should review the official schedule before travelling to identify the masterclasses, discussions and exhibitions most relevant to their interests.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Those planning to attend specific activities should also check whether separate registration, capacity limits or participation requirements apply.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions About AVIJOZI 2026<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">When Is AVIJOZI 2026?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AVIJOZI 2026 takes place on Saturday, 31 October 2026. The ticket listing gives the event time as 09:00 to 18:00.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Where Is AVIJOZI 2026 Taking Place?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The festival will be held at VRtuosus, eMedia Holdings, 5 Summit Road, Hyde Park, Johannesburg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Is AVIJOZI 2026 Free?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes. General admission is free, but visitors must register through the official ticketing platform.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What Can Visitors Expect at AVIJOZI?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The festival includes industry speakers, masterclasses, exhibitions, demonstrations and discussions covering film, animation, visual effects and creative technology.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who Can Attend AVIJOZI 2026?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The festival is relevant to creative professionals, students, emerging practitioners and members of the public interested in film, animation and digital production.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"gaute-12473015\" class=\"gaute-inbetween-content gaute-entity-placement\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;margin-left: auto;margin-right: auto;text-align: center;\"><div class=\"gaute-adlabel\">Advertisement<\/div><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-1852772760112594\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-1852772760112594\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1819787043\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Plan Your Visit to AVIJOZI 2026<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">AVIJOZI 2026 takes place on Saturday, 31 October, at VRtuosus in Hyde Park, Johannesburg.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Visitors should register for free tickets, review the programme and confirm transport arrangements before travelling.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With sessions covering animation, visual effects, filmmaking and emerging technology, the festival provides an opportunity to explore the people, skills and processes shaping South Africa&#8217;s creative industries.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For registration, programme details and event updates, visit the official AVIJOZI website at avijozi.com.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>AVIJOZI 2026 will bring filmmakers, animators, visual effects specialists and other creative professionals together in Johannesburg for a free, one day industry festival. Organised by AVIJOZI NPC in partnership with Chocolate Tribe, the event features speakers from South Africa&#8217;s film, television, animation and digital creative industries, with free tickets available through the festival&#8217;s website. For Gauteng&#8217;s aspiring creatives, students and established professionals, the festival offers an opportunity to explore different creative disciplines, learn from industry practitioners and make professional connections.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":23,"featured_media":43812,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"rank_math_focus_keyword":"avijozi 2026,avijozi","rank_math_title":"","rank_math_description":"","footnotes":"","_ppma_block_editor_authors":""},"categories":[54],"tags":[11903,104],"ppma_author":[11575],"class_list":["post-43802","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-events","tag-avijozi-2026","tag-events-in-gauteng"],"authors":[{"term_id":11575,"user_id":23,"is_guest":0,"slug":"nomthandazo","display_name":"Nomthandazo Ntisa","avatar_url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/ec3262463e8ed5ea26dca074ed7eff95ffede057639be73a77f7896ccd06170f?s=96&r=g","author_category":"1","first_name":"Nomthandazo","last_name":"Ntisa","user_url":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/","job_title":"Content Editor","description":"Nomthandazo Ntisa is a journalist and Content Editor at What's On G with more than six years of experience in journalism, digital publishing, and content strategy. She covers the people, places, events, and issues shaping Gauteng - producing stories that help readers understand and connect with life across the province."}],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43802","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/23"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=43802"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43802\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":43811,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/43802\/revisions\/43811"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/43812"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=43802"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=43802"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=43802"},{"taxonomy":"author","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.gauteng.net\/whats-on-g\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ppma_author?post=43802"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}