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Writer's pictureMbali Tebele

Converse Empowers Young Creatives with the All-Star Projects Program


Converse, the global footwear company, continues its commitment to supporting young and emerging creatives with the All-Star Projects Program. Recently, Thato Chosa Ché Bernardo (21) and Ginelio Da Silva (22) were recognized as the recipients of the 2022 program, receiving invaluable tools and opportunities to pursue their creative passions in Cape Town and Pretoria.



Converse's dedication to nurturing young talent is evident through its global accelerator program. This initiative invests in All-Star communities, fostering growth and exploration in various creative disciplines such as music, art, sustainability, fashion, and sport. By breaking boundaries and encouraging innovation, Converse aims to provide young creatives with a platform to realize their dreams.



After a rigorous selection process, Thato Chosa Ché Bernardo and Ginelio Da Silva emerged as the chosen creatives to showcase the brand's narrative. Both individuals bring unique perspectives and visions to the table, promising to make a significant impact in their respective fields.



Thato Chosa Ché Bernardo's winning concept centers on celebrating creatives and fostering a self-sustaining micro-industry. His idea involves executing themed events titled 'Growth,' 'Rebirth,' and 'Transformation,' in collaboration with the creative collective CRATES. With a focus on community and collective growth, Bernardo aspires to create an environment where emerging creatives can thrive and redefine the industry's standards.


Ginelio Da Silva is set to make a bold move through the COTERIE festival, which seamlessly combines music and fashion. Taking place in Pretoria at the African Beer Emporium on the 19th of August, the festival aims to bridge connections among people from diverse backgrounds. It also serves as a platform for budding artists and designers to showcase their talents, granting them valuable exposure and opportunities.



Both All-Star Program recipients have ambitious goals for their projects. Bernardo hopes that his initiative will inspire growth and success for multiple artists and designers, while also influencing other promoters and event organizers to support emerging talent. Similarly, Da Silva envisions COTERIE leaving a lasting impact on the music and fashion scenes, providing deserving artists with the breakthrough they need to advance their careers.



The anticipation builds as the 3-day workshop's participants prepare to bring their installations to life. The event will take place at the Botanik Social House in Cape Town on the 30th of July 2023. Additionally, the COTERIE festival, scheduled for the 19th of August, promises to unite various artists and music enthusiasts from different backgrounds.


Converse's All-Star Projects Program stands as a testament to its commitment to fostering creativity and innovation in South Africa and beyond. By empowering young creatives like Thato Chosa Ché Bernardo and Ginelio Da Silva, Converse continues to create spaces for aspiring talents to push their limits and shape the future of their creative industries. Aspiring creatives are encouraged to seize such opportunities and create their "next" with Converse All Stars, joining the global movement of young visionaries making a difference.







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