The Arts and Culture Trust (ACT) has announced the appointment of a new General Manager:

Ashraf Johaardien will take up the position on February 1 2005.

Tammy Ballantyne, who has been interim General Manager since August, is delighted with the appointment: "The Trust undertook an extensive call for applications and a very intense interview process. Applicants were generally of a very high standard and the ACT Management committee was extremely impressed with Johaardien's experience in the arts and culture sector and his commitment to culture and development. ACT looks forward to a fresh vision and renewed vigour in 2005."

Launched just months after the inauguration of the first democratically elected government, ACT is the oldest body established to fund arts and culture in post-apartheid South Africa. ACT also initiated a series of annual Awards to recognise the work done by individuals and organisations in supporting artistic and cultural development in South Africa.

Ashraf Johaardien has been professionally associated with several major South African arts and culture organisations. He is also a published playwright and his work has been produced at mainstream theatre venues and festivals both locally and abroad. He holds an International Baccalaureate from the United World College of the Atlantic in Wales as well as an Honours Degree from the University of Cape Town. Over the last ten years he has worked across the creative industries as a manager in public relations, communications and development.

Commenting on his appointment Johaardien said: "Historically artists have shaped the imaginations, identity and profile of this country and today the arts have the potential to be important levers of social and economic development. In my new role as General Manager of ACT, I look forward to playing a part in cultivating an improved dynamic in the relationship between the business world and the arts world in South Africa."