Building the Bay’s Creative Future: Heather & Lwando Bring Creators Together

Gqeberha’s creator community is gearing up for a hands-on morning of learning, networking, and content-building and at the heart of it are two familiar local powerhouses: Heather Step and Lwando Joko-Sipeliti.

The pair are co-hosting the inaugural #NMBContentCreator Meetup, presented in partnership with Africa Creator Festival, taking place on Saturday, 22 November 2025 at Baywest Mall.

After the festival’s strong momentum in Johannesburg, the Gqeberha edition taps into local talent and community spirit something both Heather and Lwando have championed for years.

Meet the Hosts Making It Happen

Lwando Joko-Sipeliti, a lifestyle creator, MC, and workflow strategist, will lead creators through real, practical tools for planning, filming, and growing across platforms. Known for her steady, intentional approach to content, she says the meetup is about reminding creators that you build confidence by showing up:

“So many of us wait for the perfect setup or the right moment. The truth? You claim your main-character energy now. Every time you show up, you’re proving your dreams are valid.”

Heather Step, the mind behind South African Mom Blogs, brings years of experience running eight blogging meetups and two online summits. For her, the magic is in the connections:

“Yes, it’s safe behind our screens, but we need each other. These events build community. They help us grow, collaborate, and level up our skills together.”

Between Heather’s logistical backbone and Lwando’s content strategy expertise, the meetup offers a unique blend of mentorship, structure, and creative energy tailored specifically for NMB’s emerging creators.

What to Expect on the Day

The meetup runs in two parts:

  • Content capture at Imagine That Selfie Museum, using themed booths to shoot fresh photos and video
  • Networking lunch & strategy session at Centre Stage, diving into batching, captions, brand alignment, and intentional planning.

A Creator Spotlight Q&A will also feature Sinolwazi April, one of Gqeberha’s most influential digital voices.

A Moment for NMB’s Digital Creatives

While Africa Creator Festival founder Jolene Roelofse will provide virtual input, this edition is firmly rooted in the Bay, shaped by Heather and Lwando’s lived experience, community ties, and commitment to empowering local creators.

Prizes from 041online Digital Magazine, Yellow Lizard Digital Agency, Baywest Mall, and others will also be up for grabs.

Event Details

Date: Saturday, 22 November 2025
Time: 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM
Venue: Imagine That Selfie Museum & Centre Stage, Baywest Mall
Cost: R350 (Limited to 25 seats)
Bookings: Via Quicket
Ideal for: New and emerging creators, bloggers, vloggers, influencers

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