COVID-19 and the South African Live Events Industry: Exploring Freelancers’ Perspective Regarding the Market and Financial Relief Measures

Abstract

The impact of the COVID-19 global pandemic on the cultural and creative economy poses a significant threat. The effects were first and intensely experienced by workers in the live event industry and particularly freelancers. The aim of this article is to examine the perspective of freelancers regarding the market and financial relief measures in response to COVID-19 in a South African context. For this article responses of 846 freelancers, who completed an online survey, were analysed. The results showed particularly low levels of access and application for funding supplied by governmental and private sectors to mediate the COVID-19 pandemic effects. Additionally, the lowest-earning individuals, who are the most vulnerable, received virtually no relief. As one of the first studies of its kind on freelancers in the Cultural and Creative Industries in South Africa, it provides an insight into the challenges faced in the gig economy. It could assist with the development of specific policies and recovery measures in the post-COVID-19 era.

Keywords

• event
• industry profile
• market position
• funding implications