ULTRA South Africa Champions Diversity and Culture as It Celebrates Over a Decade of Dance Music Excellence

As ULTRA South Africa marks more than ten years as Africa’s premier electronic music festival, it stands not only as a symbol of world-class production and entertainment but also as a powerful platform driving transformation in the music industry. What began as a bold extension of the global ULTRA Worldwide brand has evolved into a cultural cornerstone—celebrating diversity, authenticity, and innovation at every turn.

In an era when female and queer representation in electronic music has often been sidelined, ULTRA South Africa is forging a different path—placing inclusion and empowerment at the heart of its evolving identity. With each edition, the festival continues to break boundaries and elevate the voices shaping the next chapter of dance music.

A Movement, Not Just a Festival

Africa’s largest electronic music festival has emerged as more than just a destination for high-energy sets and dazzling lights. ULTRA South Africa is a movement—a celebration of sound, identity, and cultural progression. Its stages are shared by globally recognized artists and local trailblazers, each adding a unique rhythm to a pulsating mix of Afro-tech, Amapiano, house, and melodic techno.

From the early days, female DJs such as Lady Lea, the founder of Divas on Decks, have carved out essential space for women in the DJ booth. Through mentorship and visibility, Lady Lea has inspired a generation of women to take the decks with confidence and creative freedom. Later, DJs like Ms Cosmo and Claudia Lovisa carried this momentum, culminating in DJ Zinhle’s iconic 2020 set on the Johannesburg Main Stage—a moment that cemented her status as one of the country’s most electrifying performers.

Spotlight on Queer and Female Talent

ULTRA South Africa’s recent lineups underscore a deliberate and dynamic shift toward greater inclusivity. In 2023, the arrival of global Amapiano sensation Uncle Waffles sent waves through the festival circuit. Her high-energy performances, viral visuals, and boundary-pushing style are rewriting what it means to be a modern electronic artist—proof that originality and talent transcend gender norms.

Similarly, Desiree, an intersex artist commanding global attention with her deeply emotional take on Afro House and melodic techno, continues to expand the definition of representation. Her performances resonate beyond sound—they are statements of visibility and courage.

Singer and producer Sio joined the ranks in 2024 with a heart-stirring performance, offering audiences a more vocal-led, soulful journey through dance music. Meanwhile, the Club House stage has been kept alive by genre-blending stars like DBN Gogo and queer icons such as Lelowhatsgood, who has become a powerful voice for South Africa’s LGBTQ+ nightlife and ballroom culture.

Building an Inclusive Future

For Lelowhatsgood, ULTRA South Africa represents more than just a stage—it is a safe, affirming space. “We’ve built such a free and welcoming environment,” he shared. “I think it’s a testament to the music because it comes first before the politics. I was welcomed with open arms as an openly queer person. Now queer DJs are sharing stages with the likes of DJ Lag, who has expressed support for the queer community. It’s a beautiful and supportive community that I never imagined could exist.”

The 2025 edition is expected to push even further, with upcoming sets from queer talents AN.D, Mila Rose, and Shamiso. These additions demonstrate the festival’s commitment to reflecting the full spectrum of human experience through sound and performance.

Redefining Cultural Leadership

At ULTRA South Africa, DJs and producers aren’t just making music—they’re shaping movements. Many of the artists on its stages are also entrepreneurs, label heads, visual artists, and influencers. Their work spills over into fashion, digital media, and cultural commentary, ensuring their impact continues long after the music fades.

This festival doesn’t just showcase talent—it nurtures it. With a strong focus on local excellence and global relevance, ULTRA South Africa is positioning the country as a powerhouse within the international dance music ecosystem. Its inclusive approach shifts the narrative from mere participation to genuine leadership, championing artists who reflect the continent’s diversity and cultural richness.

More Than Sound—A Way of Life

In South Africa, electronic music is more than just entertainment; it’s an immersive part of everyday life. At ULTRA, that energy comes alive. It’s where beats meet identity, where movement meets message, and where audiences come together to celebrate not only sound, but who they are and who they’re becoming.

As ULTRA South Africa steps boldly into its next decade, it does so with purpose—fueled by rhythms that unite and artists who inspire. The future of dance music is here: diverse, unapologetic, African, and driven by voices that were once overlooked but are now impossible to ignore.