Motherwell Express Sessions is a community-based creative movement founded in Motherwell, Gqeberha.
We exist to give local artists, poets, rappers, singers, and storytellers a stage to express themselves — freely, boldly, and proudly.
Our journey began in early 2020, when we hosted our first project, MES Ciphers, at NU2 Square. It was a raw, open platform where artists could step up and perform live for their community — turning our local square into a stage full of rhythm, wordplay, and soul.
When the world paused due to the COVID-19 lockdown, we didn’t stop — we adapted. Through funding support from the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC), we launched a digital version of the Ciphers.
We built an indoor stage, invited back our talented local performers, and live-streamed their performances every Sunday on Facebook — bringing the energy of the streets straight to people’s homes.
Motherwell Express Sessions continues to grow as a space for youth empowerment, creative learning, and cultural connection.
We believe every artist deserves to be heard, and every story deserves a stage.
Held at NU2 Square, the MES Ciphers gave young performers a stage to showcase poetry, rap, and song.
The response was electric — artists from across Motherwell came to perform, connect, and inspire others.
When COVID-19 halted live gatherings, the spirit didn’t die — it evolved.
With funding from the Department of Sports, Arts and Culture (DSAC), we brought the Ciphers online.
Each Sunday from 12 July to 2 August 2020, we live-streamed performances from an indoor stage, featuring artists from the original street sessions.
The project helped artists stay visible and creative during lockdown — and connected them with new audiences online.
-To empower and uplift the youth of Motherwell through creative expression, performance, and digital innovation — building platforms where talent meets opportunity.
-A creative community where young voices are celebrated, inspired, and supported to tell their stories to the world.
To create accessible platforms for artists to perform, collaborate, and share their art with the community.
To host regular music, poetry, and creative expression sessions that inspire local audiences.
To offer training, mentorship, and development opportunities in music production, performance, and digital media.
To build partnerships with schools, organisations, and government to grow youth participation in the arts.
To preserve and promote local culture, creativity, and storytelling through multimedia platforms.
To use the arts as a tool for social change, community unity, and youth empowerment.
We celebrate creativity in all its forms, encouraging youth to express themselves through various artistic mediums.
We empower youth by providing resources, training, and opportunities to explore their artistic talents.
We build a strong community where young artists can connect, collaborate, and inspire one another.
We offer hands-on workshops in painting, sculpture, and other art forms for young people to explore their creativity.
Join our music sessions where youth can learn to play instruments, write songs, and express themselves through music.
We organize cultural events showcasing the talents of young artists in our community, from exhibitions to performances.
Discover the traditional art of beadwork and crafts in our engaging workshops aimed at preserving cultural heritage.
We provide a platform for youth to showcase their talents through performances, enhancing their confidence and stage presence.
Our community programs are designed to involve youth in arts and culture, creating a vibrant and expressive community.
Join our sessions and unleash your artistic potential!
