South Africa’s boldest celebration of art, fashion, and music is back for 2026 and bigger than ever before. After the phenomenal success of Fusion Fest 2025, which saw over 7,000 fans rocked by a blend of icons and rising stars, the Mahindra Fusion Fest is now going national with a pan-South African movement that fuses local culture, creativity, and community. Mahindra Fusion Fest – The Build Up tour officially kicked off its nationwide campaign at the University of Cape Town with an electrifying launch event that brought energy, excitement, and entertainment to campus, attracting over 3000 students, influencers, and other stakeholders.
Mahindra Fusion Fest Build-Up Hits UCT
With pre-ticket sales officially opening later this month, in addition to the nationwide talent search officially launched, the road to Mahindra Fusion Fest 2026 – hosted on 7 March 2026 – starts now.
Attendees at the latest build-up at UCT, which included media personalities Kelly Kikx, Kyeezi, Ryle Rene De Morny, Neevan Ferris, Thabiet Amardien, Lucian Albertyn, and Missy Roberts, were treated to an interactive brand experience with art installations, a fashion show, and a clothing activation. Hosted by dynamic brand ambassador Nomuzi ‘Moozlie’ Mabena, the activation featured an unforgettable live performance by rising music sensation Zee Nxumalo. There were also opportunities to win exciting prizes, engage in games, and face challenges. They also got the chance to experience the Mahindra lifestyle: fashion, music, and art – all while enjoying a vibrant, festival-like atmosphere.
To build true pan-SA appeal, Mahindra will host Fusion Fest Roadshows in Cape Town and Durban leading up to the actual festival next year, showcasing regional flavour in each city. By taking the roadshows to multiple cities, Mahindra aims to give South Africans across the country a taste of what Fusion Fest has to offer – a celebration of creativity, culture, and community.
“The growth of the Mahindra Fusion Fest is a reflection of our deepening connection with South Africans through culture, creativity, and community. What began as a celebration of a youthful, vibrant rainbow nation is further strengthening its roots by retaining the core idea of joining the Cultural Revolution in its journey to rise together. We are proud to support and grow this unique festival year after year,” – CEO Rajesh Gupta, Mahindra South Africa
At the heart of this campaign is a multi-faceted talent search under three lifestyle elements, each aligned to one of the festival’s creative pillars: Music, Fashion, and Art. Winners of each competition will not only win an R30 000 cash prize but also get to feature at the main event.
MAHINDRA x MUSIC
Mahindra South Africa is calling on unsigned local artists to step into the spotlight! Artists will get the chance to showcase their creativity by submitting an original short track inspired by the theme of fusion – whether that means blending genres, cultures, or sounds. Selected artists will gain exposure, connect with fellow creatives, and be part of a celebration of musical innovation. Renowned artist Zee Nxumalo, in collaboration with a distinguished panel of music industry experts, will be responsible for selecting the ultimate winner.
MAHINDRA x FASHION
The #MahindraFashionSearch invites young designers to showcase their unique style and creative voice by submitting up to four original sketches that embody the spirit of fusion – whether it’s cultural, stylistic, or material. Designs can be brand new or pulled from your existing portfolio, as long as they reflect a personal interpretation of fusion. This is more than a competition; it’s a platform. Finalists will gain industry recognition and invaluable exposure, with submissions reviewed by an esteemed panel of fashion industry giants.
MAHINDRA x ART
Emerging visual artists, this is your canvas. We’re calling on fresh talent to share original works that explore and express the concept of fusion – whether through medium, message, culture, or technique. Submissions are open across all visual disciplines, from painting and illustration to digital art, photography, sculpture, and mixed media. To enter, artists can submit high-resolution scans or photographs of their work that capture its full detail and creative intent.
This is an opportunity to be seen, celebrated, and considered for a platform that champions bold new voices in contemporary art. The judging panel includes featured artists from Fusion Fest 2026 and hosted masterclasses by established creatives.
Competition info and entry mechanics can be found on the brand’s social media platforms.
Driving with Mahindra
As part of the Mahindra Fusion Fest build-up, Mahindra is also putting fans behind the wheel with the Test Drives of the 3XO Challenge – a high-energy competition inviting festival-goers and roadshow attendees to experience the all-new Mahindra XUV 3XO firsthand. Members of the public are also invited to test drive the vehicle at selected roadshow events. They stand a chance to win exclusive Fusion Fest VIP tickets, cool merch, and an entry into the grand prize draw for a Mahindra XUV 3XO weekend getaway experience.
The challenge not only showcases the performance and features of Mahindra’s latest compact SUV but also brings the excitement of the festival onto the open road. Don’t miss your chance to drive, vibe, and win.
Keeping Up With Mahindra
In the coming weeks, Mahindra Fusion Fest will reveal the full line up across all fusion categories, plus exclusive details on dealer activations, limited-edition giveaways, and unforgettable experiences. This year promises to be bigger, bolder, and more immersive than ever.
Keep up with the latest competition updates, artist reveals, and event build-up by following:
Pastry Playdates 
Leave a comment