Expressions: Where Vaal Creatives Came to Express Themselves

We found ourselves at this event simply because re rata ditaba (because we like things). And we absolutely do.

So when we saw a poster advertising an event about open mic sessions, freestyle sessions, singing, poetry and more, we knew we had to be there. Music to our ears. Literally.

The event, titled Expressions, took place at the Community Hall in Sebokeng, Zone 14 on 12th September 2026, bringing together young creatives, artists, musicians, poets and members of the community who came together for one simple purpose: to express themselves.

For us, the event was more than just an event. We weren't only there to cover the action. We also had our very own The016 Magazine stall set up at the event. And honestly? It was the perfect opportunity.

Having our stall at Expressions gave us the chance to introduce The016 magazine to a new audience, put faces to the name and, most importantly, build relationships with other local creatives and businesses who are equally passionate about the Vaal and its people.

A special shoutout is definitely in order to Navy Green, who were the plug and helped make the opportunity possible. We appreciate you!

As the event progressed, the meaning behind its title became increasingly clear to me.

Expressions wasn't just a catchy title. It described exactly what the event was about.

The hall became a space where young creatives could show up as themselves. Whether through music, poetry, freestyle, art or simply connecting with other people in the creative space. There was no pressure to fit into a particular box. No need to explain yourself. Just come through, take up space and just express yourself.

And perhaps that's what made the atmosphere so special.

There is something powerful about being surrounded by people who understand the creative journey. People who are also trying, experimenting, building, and figuring things out. Because you're with your own people, you know?

The hall was also filled with displays of artwork, giving attendees the opportunity to engage with visual art alongside the music and performances.

The artist we spoke to was Mohau Lethae who is a visual artist from Orange Farm. He took us through his journey into art and what inspires his work.

“My work is mainly about African people, our experiences and afro-futurism. I am trying to talk about the future of black people because my work is inspired by people. I am at the event because this is an event I’ve been attending for the past 4 to 5 years, so each time they host a show, I am always attending. What I would say to anyone who hasn’t seen my work is to buy art from living artists.”

For The016 magazine, being at Expressions also came with its own moment of vulnerability.

Having our stall there was overwhelming at first. As someone who has spent years telling other people's stories, putting your own brand in front of a room full of people feels completely different.

I didn't know how people would respond to us. Would they be interested in the magazine? Would they stop by? Would they understand what The016 is about?

I was nervous. But, just like anything new, the nerves eventually settled.

As the event progressed, we eased into the experience. Conversations started flowing, people stopped by the stall, and we had the opportunity to tell them more about The016 and what we're building.

And that's the beauty of putting yourself out there. Sometimes you just have to start.

Among the familiar faces in the room was OB Gwala, a Vaal hip-hop legend who came through to support the young talent taking up space.

We caught up with him about what it meant to see emerging creatives being given platforms like Expressions.

“I am really excited to be here with young talent. They are telling us to listen and I am listening.”

His presence was significant because events like these are not only about discovering new talent; they're also about creating bridges between those who came before and those who are coming up now.

We also spotted Kat Scavenger, an upcoming name in the game who has been making his own noise and bringing a one-of-a-kind energy to the creative scene.

And that's exactly what made Expressions special: everybody was in the room.

Established names. Upcoming artists. First-time performers. Art lovers. Music lovers. Creatives. Supporters. All sharing the same space.

The016 magazine was in the building man. For us, being at Expressions was also about reminding people that The016 Magazine is here, and that we're here for the Vaal.

We were proud to introduce our magazine to new readers and speak about our latest Israel Issue, our first international issue, which documents stories and experiences from my recent trip to Israel.

By the end of the event, one thing was clear: there is no shortage of talent in the Vaal.

What is needed are more spaces where that talent can be seen, heard, and celebrated.

And for The016 magazine, it was an honour. From setting up our stall and meeting new people, to connecting with fellow creatives and witnessing performances, it reminded us why community events like this matter so much.

Thank you to Navy Green for the opportunity to attend and for giving The016 magazine a space to connect with the community.

Here's to more creativity. More collaboration. More local talent taking up space.

And, of course, many more Expressions events.