Call for Expressions of Interest – Events Coordinator for Black Sash 70th Anniversary Celebration

Background

Black Sash, a leading human rights organisation in South Africa, is celebrating its 70th anniversary on 19 May 2025. Founded in 1955, Black Sash has played a pivotal role in advocating for justice, equality, and human rights in South Africa. As we approach this significant milestone, we are planning a week of celebratory events to honour our founding members, reflect on the current work of the organisation and look to its future.

The centerpiece of the celebration will be held in Cape Town, complemented by smaller events in Durban, Gqeberha, and Johannesburg, as well as an exhibition of photographs and memorabilia, the launch of a commemorative booklet, a mini-documentary, and a comprehensive press and social media campaign.

To ensure the success of this celebration, Black Sash is seeking an experienced Events Coordinator, based in Cape Town, to guide the planning and execution of these events, with a primary focus on the main event in Cape Town.

Scope of Work

The Events Coordinator will work closely with the “Sash70” Committee to:

Plan and Execute the Main Event in Cape Town:

Coordinate the overall logistics of the main event, including venue selection, vendor management, and program development.
Ensure the integration of the exhibition, commemorative booklet launch, and mini-documentary screening into the main event.
Oversee guest management, including invitations, RSVPs, and on-the-day coordination.

Support Regional Events:

Provide online guidance and support to the teams organising the smaller events in Durban, Gqeberha, and Johannesburg.
Ensure consistency in the theme and messaging across all events.

Exhibition Coordination:

Assist the curator of the main exhibition with logistical support and practical information.

Media Engagement:

Work with the communications team to ensure robust media and social media engagement throughout the celebration week.

Budget Management and Communication:

Assist in managing the budget for the celebrations, ensuring that all activities are carried out within the allocated resources.
Maintain clear and effective communication with the Sash70 Committee members responsible for the various sub-committees.

Skills and Experience

The ideal candidate will have:

Proven Experience in Event Planning and Coordination:

Experience in planning large-scale events, such as weddings, corporate events, or exhibitions.
A strong track record of managing multiple events simultaneously.

Exhibition and Cultural Event Experience:

Familiarity with the logistics of setting up and managing exhibitions or similar cultural events.
An understanding of how to create engaging and informative displays.

Strong Organisational and Project Management Skills:

Ability to manage complex projects with multiple stakeholders.
Experience in budget management and vendor negotiation.

Excellent Communication Skills:

Ability to communicate effectively with a diverse range of stakeholders, including staff, vendors, partners, and guests.
Strong written communication skills

Creativity and Problem-Solving Abilities:

Ability to think creatively to overcome challenges and deliver memorable events.
Experience in crisis management and contingency planning.

Application Process

We invite qualified individuals and companies to submit expressions of interest for the role of Events Coordinator. Please include:

A cover letter outlining your relevant experience and why you are interested in this project.
A portfolio or examples of past events you have coordinated.
A proposed fee structure or budget for your services.

Deadline for Submissions: Friday, 06 September 2024

Please send your application to jobs@blacksash.org.za

For further enquiries please email Gail Kirchmann at gail@blacksash.org.za

We look forward to hearing from dynamic and experienced event professionals who are passionate about contributing to the success of Black Sash’s 70th anniversary celebration.