For over a century, Anglo American has been at the centre of Johannesburg’s story. The company’s headquarters at 44 Main stood as a symbol of progress, shaping the city’s skyline and spirit. Now, driven by the Anglo American Foundation, this landmark is entering a bold new chapter. 44 Main will become a dynamic hub for art, technology, and innovation where creativity meets code and young people reimagine what is possible.
“44 Main Presents” – Engage. Belong. Imagine.
From the moment guests stepped inside, the building felt alive again. Exhibitions by Creative Nestlings, the Moleskine Foundation, RLabs and Windybrow Arts Centre filled the space with photography, illustration, mixed media and design. Each exhibition approached the themes of youth, belonging and creativity in its own way, and together they showed the depth of talent already connected to 44 Main.
Opening the afternoon, Shingi Bimha of the Anglo American Foundation reminded guests why this building matters.
“This is a place where young creators can explore ideas, build skills, try something new and express themselves in the heart of the CBD. Today gives us a glimpse of what that future can look like.”
Conversations With Purpose
The Talks and Ideas programme helped bring the vision of 44 Main into focus.
The first panel was hosted by WeThinkCode and moderated by CEO Nyari Samushonga. The conversation centred on youth-driven innovation and the future of African technology. Speakers were direct about the need for African-built solutions and about the lack of access that continues to hold back young talent. One panellist noted that “we are consumers of tech we did not build,” a reminder that opportunity is essential for changing this reality. Another speaker added that “talent does not discriminate,” pointing out that brilliance already exists in communities that rarely receive investment or visibility.
The second panel was moderated by writer and cultural critic Malibongwe Tyilo. IQHAWE, FEDE Arthouse and The People’s Department explored the connection between creativity and technology. One speaker noted that “tech and creativity need to connect and collaborate,” explaining that each discipline becomes stronger when they work together. Another emphasised the need for physical spaces in Johannesburg where creators can work safely, meet collaborators and build ideas without barriers. The shared belief was clear. Johannesburg has the talent. Spaces like 44 Main will help unlock it.
This building is catalyst. It belongs to Jozi, and it belongs to young people of this city. It’s a place where young talent can gather, collaborate and set new ideas in motion.Michael Mapstone, CEO, Anglo American Foundation
A Night of Storytelling and Performance
The transition into the evening performance opened with the powerful words of Michael Mapstone, CEO of the Anglo American Foundation, who set the tone for the next chapter of 44 Main.
He spoke about the long life of 44 Main and why its next chapter belongs to young people.
“This building has stood at the heart of this city for over a century. We stand here not just to preserve that legacy, but to unlock it.”
Michael reflected on the pace and creativity of Africa’s youth, describing how they are building solutions in townships, studios and start-ups long before the world catches up. He spoke about the responsibility to clear the path rather than stand in the way, and about the Foundation’s commitment to long term partnerships that give young people room to lead.
He captured the purpose of 44 Main with a single idea that settled over the crowd. “This building is catalyst. It belongs to Jozi, and it belongs to the young people of this city.” His words set the tone for the night: confident, hopeful and centred on youth shaping Johannesburg’s next chapter.
Dr John Kani followed with a keynote that grounded the night in history and hope. He spoke about storytelling as a thread that connects generations and said that many had “waited for 44 Main so we could find the next generation of storytellers.”
He reflected on the responsibility held by older generations to ensure that “there is hope, that their road is much smoother than ours.” His words positioned 44 Main as an important part of Johannesburg’s cultural life and as a place where the next generation can continue the work he helped shape.
Reflecting on the significance of 44 Main, Dr John Kani said:
“This is another chance. We cannot let it pass. With our own hands we will build one of the greatest meeting places of minds and passion.”
The performances that followed carried the energy of the afternoon into something more immersive, unfolding across the building in a way that made 44 Main feel alive with story, movement and sound.
Rene Parker of RLabs spoke of the traced the organisation’s beginnings and the belief that innovation can be born from community strength. Her reflections echoed the purpose of 44 Main, reminding the audience that creativity often emerges where young people are trusted to lead.
Bea Swanapool CEO of Jozi My Jozi followed with a message rooted in the rhythm of the city itself. She spoke about reimagining Johannesburg’s inner core and the role that young people play in shaping a city that reflects their ambitions.
The Altazor Project then shifted the atmosphere, introducing a layered, cross-border collaboration that blended spoken word, movement and sound. Their work explored identity, connection and artistic dialogue.
Vuyani Dance Theatre performed As We Are, bringing a powerful, expressive energy that held the room and showcased the strength of contemporary South African dance.
Joburg Ballet closed with works from the Spring Season of Dance and Communion of Light, bringing a blend of discipline and grace that reflected the richness of Johannesburg’s artistic community.
The Beginning of a New Chapter
By the end of the evening, the vision of 44 Main Presents felt clear. It revealed what 44 Main is becoming. A space where art, technology and community meet. A place where young people can lead with confidence. A home for the next chapter of Johannesburg’s creative life.
44 Main is connecting people who have ideas to people who can build with them. It reflects the energy of Johannesburg and the ambition of its youth. It is a place where creativity fuels opportunity and where a new future for the city is already beginning to take shape.
