<a href="https://www.inyourpocket.com/johannesburg/sophiatown-the-mix_123392v">Sophiatown the Mix</a>, the cultural, heritage and enterprise centre at the heart of Joburg's historic home of jazz, Sophiatown, celebrates Africa Month with the <strong>Motswako-Afrika Rising Festival</strong>. The month-long festival is themed around innovation, inspiration and inclusion and celebrates the unique 'motswako' or mix of cultures that make Sophiatown such a special place. There are 140 entrepreneurs based in Sophiatown who are creating start ups with the help of the centre, as well as musicians, community activists, educators and mentors who are all working together to make a difference in the community. Music plays a major role in the Motswako-Afrika Rising Festival with a series of jazz performances - the Sophiatown Jazz Encounters, as well as film screenings, interactive tours, a pop-up market and creative events for kids.<br /> <br /> <strong>The programme for the Motswako-Afrika Rising Festival runs as follows. For bookings and enquiries call Rinkie Nqolwana on +27 83 550 7130.<br /> <strong>​</strong><br /> Every Mon from May 8, <a href="https://www.inyourpocket.com/johannesburg/africa-zazi_6925e">Africa Zazi</a></strong>. An interactive cultural experience for kids themed around African diversity. Sessions for kids aged 8–10 at 14:00, kids aged 11–14 at 15:30. Booking essential.<br /> <strong>Mon</strong>–<strong>Sat, <a href="http://www.sophiatownacademyofmusic.co.za/">Sophiatown Academy of Music</a>. </strong>Master a musical instrument (piano, guitar or vocals) with lessons at the Sophiatown Academy of Music.<br /> <strong>May 5 at 20:00 <a href="https://www.inyourpocket.com/johannesburg/sofiatown-jazz-encounters_2734e">Sophiatown Jazz Encounters - the Vuma Levin Sextet album launch</a></strong><br /> <strong>May 12 at 20:00 <a href="https://www.inyourpocket.com/johannesburg/sofiatown-jazz-encounters_2734e">Sophiatown Jazz Encounters - Karo Ndoite</a></strong><br /> <strong>May 19 at 20:00 <a href="http://www.inyourpocket.com/johannesburg/sofiatown-jazz-encounters_2734e">Sophiatown Jazz Encounters - Siphephelo Ndlovu</a></strong><br /> <strong>May 25 at 15:00 <a href="https://www.inyourpocket.com/johannesburg/ayanda_7278e">Community Film Screening - Ayanda</a></strong> (tickets R20)<br /> <strong>May 26 at 20:00 <a href="https://www.inyourpocket.com/johannesburg/sofiatown-jazz-encounters_2734e">Sophiatown Jazz Encounters - Lex Futshane Quartet</a></strong><br /> <strong>May 27, <a href="http://iyp.me/7117e">Pop Up Afrika market</a>.</strong> Family friendly market showcasing locally produced environmentally-friendly products, boutique wines and delicious, organic foods.