USA (Commonwealth Union)_ Renowned South African filmmaker Anant Singh, of Indian descent, has been appointed to the prestigious Global Arts and Culture Council (GACC), an initiative launched during the recent World Economic Forum (WEF) session in Davos. The GACC is an influential platform aimed at amplifying the role of the arts and culture sector in shaping a unified, prosperous future in today’s rapidly changing world. Widely recognized for his impactful films addressing apartheid, HIV/AIDS, and gender violence, Singh brings a wealth of experience to the council. Singh’s appointment to the GACC is a testament to his longstanding contribution to the global cultural landscape. Known for his dedication to telling powerful stories, Singh has earned international acclaim for his work on films such as Long Walk to Freedom, the biographical film about Nelson Mandela.
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Additionally, Singh’s body of work also includes iconic productions like Sarafina and Cry the Beloved Country, which have played pivotal roles in raising awareness about critical social issues in South Africa and beyond. Notably, in 2001, Singh was honored with the WEF’s prestigious Crystal Award, recognizing his significant contributions to cinema and culture. This year marks Singh’s 25th consecutive attendance at the World Economic Forum, highlighting his ongoing commitment to global dialogue and his enduring presence in discussions about arts and culture. The GACC was co-founded by Hilde Schwab and Professor Klaus Schwab, the leaders behind the WEF. It was established to address the shifting dynamics of a world transitioning from an industrial era to an interconnected, intelligent society. As part of this transformation, the council aims to harness the power of the arts and culture sector to foster collaboration and understanding across diverse communities.
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Singh’s appointment to the GACC places him among an esteemed group of international cultural leaders who are committed to using creativity as a tool for positive change. Other prominent members of the council include Academy Award-winning director Sharmeen Obaid-Chinoy; British Museum Chair George Osborne; world-renowned soprano Renee Fleming; and internationally acclaimed tenor Andrea Bocelli. Notable members also include artists and activists like Hans Ulrich Obrist, artistic director at the Serpentine Gallery; Deborah Rutter, president of the John F. Kennedy Center for Performing Arts; and Misty Copeland, renowned dancer, author, and producer.
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Furthermore, Singh emphasized the critical role of artists in today’s divided world, underscoring that the voice of the creative community is essential in bridging gaps between disparate groups. Singh remarked, “Artists and the creative community worldwide are the voice of the people and the custodians of humanity’s storytelling. In a fractious world, it is vital that the expressions of artists are heard and that their work contributes to the dialogues shaping the journeys of millions of people.” Additionally, the GACC’s mission aligns with Singh’s long-standing belief in the power of art to inspire social change. Singh expressed his excitement about participating in the council’s inaugural plenary session, which featured a keynote address by South African President Cyril Ramaphosa in advance of the upcoming G20 Summit in South Africa. Singh sees this summit as an unparalleled opportunity to showcase South Africa’s cultural richness and its people to a global audience.
The GACC’s founding members believe that in this era of rapid technological advancement and societal transformation, the arts and culture sector holds the key to creating a more harmonious world. By uniting leaders from diverse cultural backgrounds, the council aims to shape a future that emphasizes creativity, dialogue, and mutual understanding. Singh’s appointment is an acknowledgment of his continued dedication to using film and the arts as a medium for change. His involvement with the GACC marks an exciting new chapter in his career, as he joins other visionary cultural figures to influence global conversations about art, culture, and social progress. With Singh on board, the council is poised to make a lasting impact on cultural narratives worldwide, ensuring that the voices of artists continue to resonate across borders and contribute to a more connected and compassionate world.
