Young Urbanists is a community organisation "for a liveable South Africa". As their manifesto makes plain, "We stand for economic, social, environmental, and spatial justice; and strive to empower members to be change agents within their chosen professions." As part of the Design Week South Africa festivities this October, Young Urbanists are involved in four exciting events that reimagine Joburg's city spaces and streets. If inclusive and innovative urban design are of interest to you, you'll love this line-up. Three out of four of the events are free to attend, but registration is essential. Find out all you need to know below.
Thu, Oct 10: Designing South Africa's future neighbourhood
For many years, urban designers and planners have been puzzling over one of Joburg’s most pressing questions: how can vibrant, diverse, and safe spaces be created without the need for high walls and electric fences? On Thu, Oct 10 from 14:00 – 16:00 join Intrapop director Carolyn Mitchell for a talk and walk to demonstrate the impact the private sector has had in Joburg when it comes to answering this question.
Moderated by Design Week South Africa curator and MD of Young Urbanists, Roland Postma, the talk features insights from architect and urban planner Guy Briggs and development strategy adviser Andile Skosane. Some topics to be discussed include pedestrian-friendly spaces, safer intersections, the impact of building codes, slower and more walkable streets, economically stimulating urban spaces, and the encouragement of community activity in the city.
The walk takes visitors on a tour to show them how outdoor seating, green spaces, and fewer barriers can create a friendlier and more accessible Joburg. "An urban future without high walls isn’t just a vision – it’s already taking shape."
Meet at ZEDMEN in Oxford Parks from 14:00. Free but registration is essential; book your spot here.
Fri, Oct 11: Experimental street activation in Rosebank
When Design Week South Africa meets Transportation Month, we get... a street experiment! On Fri, Oct 11 from 13:00 – 15:00 the future of Joburg is reimagined along Rosebank's Bath Avenue. Jointly organised by Young Urbanists and the Rosebank Management District, this street activation experiment will take the form of discussions, demonstrations, temporary installations such as cones and crosswalks, and interactive 'guerilla activities' (that include neon pedestrian figures made from balloons).
Creativity is key, and at this event, the endless innovation of Joburgers is used to promote safer streets, more vibrant public spaces, and easier access for pedestrians. The focus is on finding new ways to interact with public roads, all for the purposes of transforming the city into a place that serves everyone. As part of an ongoing project by City of Joburg and #gorosebank to create more walkable and accessible streets, this activity promises to be an inspiration to anyone who loves the city and wants to be part of creating more community-friendly spaces.
The experiment requires some walking, so grab your hat, sunscreen, walking shoes, and water, and join other enthusiastic Joburgers to help create a better city for all.
Meet at 37 Bath Avenue, Rosebank. Free but registration is essential; book your spot here.
Sat, Oct 12: Pedal power for safer streets
Many Joburg cyclists are familiar with Critical Mass Jozi, an organisation that has been raising awareness and promoting safer streets for cyclists since 2007. In celebration of Transport Month, Design Week South Africa brings you a special daytime cycling event hosted by Critical Mass Jozi in collaboration with Young Urbanists.
Starting and ending in Rosebank, the 14,36km ride from 09:00 – 12:30 on Sat, Oct 12 takes you first to 44 Stanley then Auckland Park. At 44 Stanley, you have a 45-minute water break to explore some of the other Design Week events, as well as the precinct’s lovely tree-lined alleyways, shops, restaurants, and cafés.
This ride is open to anyone over the age of 12, regardless of your skill level. Cyclists will be accompanied by two support vehicles, which include a mobile mechanic and security. Get ready to enjoy one of Joburg's favourite modes of transport, all while supporting a very worthy cause.
Meet at Cradock Square (the parking lot in front of Game) at The Zone @ Rosebank. Free, but registration is essential; book your spot here.
Sun, Oct 13: Brixton's alleyways remade, a walking tour
Did you know that Joburg's alleyways were created to serve as sanitary lanes? As part of Design Week South Africa, join an enlightening walk through Brixton's alleys with architects and urban designers Mark Schaerer, Clare Chappel, and Thorsten Deckler on Sun, Oct 13 from 15:00.
There's always more to discover about the story of Johannesburg's built environment. Steeped in history, learn about the original use of Brixton's alleys and see how these forgotten places are being reinvented by the community using recycled materials, planting, and imaginative surface treatments.
Hosted in collaboration with the Young Urbanists, the walk will begin and end at Breezeblock Café (lasting approximately two hours). The walking route will include two Brixton alleys – activated by the community as events and exhibition spaces, and places to play and gather. Participants will receive an envelope of seeds to sow along the route as part of the Brixton rewilding program.
There will be stops at various landmarks along the way, including artist Bronwen Findlay's studio. The walk will culminate in a presentation of research into the history and future of Johannesburg’s alleys, with a focus on the Mimosa School project in Auckland Park and the alleys of Hillbrow.
Meet at Breezeblock Café from 14:30 for 15:00 for a complimentary coffee and a chat, followed by the walking tour. Tickets are R250 p.p.; book yours here. Note: Children under 12 can join the walk for free.
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