A smartphone. A story. An idea.
For a growing generation of South Africans, those three things have become the foundation of entirely new careers.
What was once considered a hobby has evolved into a thriving creator economy where influencers, streamers, podcasters, digital storytellers, fitness personalities, beauty creators and entrepreneurs are building brands, communities and businesses from content.
At the centre of this transformation stands GRYND 2026, South Africa’s premier content creator convention, returning for its fourth year with an ambitious mission: empowering the next wave of digital entrepreneurs to thrive in an increasingly competitive digital world.
Presented by Y, one of South Africa’s most recognisable youth brands, GRYND has steadily established itself as more than just an event. It has become a launchpad for creators looking to sharpen their skills, expand their networks and unlock opportunities within the rapidly evolving creator economy.
On Saturday, 27 June 2026, Atlas Studios in Milpark will once again become a hub of creativity, innovation and collaboration as creators from across the country gather under one roof to learn, connect and grow.
Where South Africa’s Creator Economy Comes Together
The creator economy is no longer a niche industry.
From nano creators building their first audiences to mega influencers shaping conversations and culture, content creation has become a legitimate career path for thousands of young South Africans.
GRYND 2026 aims to meet creators wherever they are on that journey.
Whether attendees are aspiring influencers, experienced digital entrepreneurs, podcasters, streamers, brand builders or creative professionals, the convention is designed to provide practical tools, actionable insights and meaningful connections that can help transform passion into opportunity.
This year’s convention carries a clear focus: unlocking the future of content creation.
Through a combination of keynote discussions, expert-led sessions, live demonstrations and hands-on experiences, attendees will gain valuable insight into the latest technologies, digital tools, content trends and monetisation opportunities shaping the creator economy.
Rather than simply discussing innovation, GRYND 2026 intends to bring it to life.
Learning from Some of South Africa’s Most Influential Voices
One of the event’s major attractions is its diverse lineup of creators, storytellers and industry leaders who have built successful careers in the digital space.
The speaker lineup includes Y personalities Wasabi and Sushi, who will explore the topic of Collaborative Branding, highlighting how creators can leverage partnerships and strategic collaborations to grow their influence and reach.
Popi Sibiya will tackle Subscription Monetisation, offering insight into one of the fastest-growing revenue streams within the creator economy.
Sine Madondo will delve into Characterisation, a key element of storytelling and audience engagement that continues to define successful digital brands.
Adding further depth to the programme, legacy keynote sessions will be delivered by acclaimed storytellers Grace Mondlana and Sinethemba Madondo, while the popular Grynd Live segment will be hosted by the dynamic “Because We Said So” podcast duo, ZeeXOnline and Landzy Gama.
Together, these sessions aim to equip creators with practical knowledge they can immediately apply to their own digital journeys.
A Convention Designed for Creators to Create
Unlike traditional conferences where attendees spend the day listening from their seats, GRYND 2026 is placing creativity at the centre of the experience.
A specially curated interactive exhibition space will encourage collaboration between creators, attendees and industry tastemakers.
One of the convention’s most innovative features is the introduction of dedicated content creation sets designed around different content niches.
During lunch breaks, attendees will have the opportunity to meet creators, collaborate and generate content in real time.
The featured content sets include:
• Food Set hosted by Dali Danger
• Fitness Set hosted by Libo Njomba
• Stream Set hosted by Sonwabile
• Beauty Set hosted by Phaello Tshabalala
• Dance Set hosted by Peanuts
These experiential spaces are designed to bridge the gap between learning and execution, giving creators immediate opportunities to put ideas into practice.
Building Careers, Not Just Content
According to Y Managing Director Haseena Cassim, the convention’s purpose extends far beyond social media trends and viral moments.
“GRYND was created to inspire young people to think differently about opportunity, entrepreneurship and the future of work,” says Cassim.
“Four years later, it has become a leading platform for creators and digital entrepreneurs to learn, connect and of course grow.”
As artificial intelligence, platform changes and new monetisation models continue to reshape the digital landscape, GRYND 2026 aims to provide creators with the knowledge and tools needed to remain competitive and sustainable.
Cassim believes the ultimate goal is to help creators transform their passions into viable careers that generate both income and impact.
“With GRYND 2026, we’re focused on helping creators navigate the rapidly evolving digital landscape by providing access to the latest trends, tools, and insights from some of the country’s most influential voices. Our goal is simple: to empower the next generation of creators to turn their passion into sustainable careers and meaningful impact.”
The Non-Stop Mindset
At the heart of GRYND 2026 is a powerful theme.
Non Stop. Embracing what it means to GRYND in a Digital Age.
It is a message that resonates deeply within a creator economy that never sleeps.
The next video, podcast, campaign, livestream or entrepreneurial opportunity is always one upload away.
The challenge is not simply creating content, but continuously evolving, learning and adapting.
GRYND 2026 seeks to provide exactly that environment — one where creators can discover opportunities, learn from industry leaders and position themselves for long-term success.
For South Africa’s rising generation of digital entrepreneurs, the event offers more than inspiration.
It offers a roadmap.
Event Information
GRYND 2026
Date: Saturday, 27 June 2026
Venue: Atlas Studios, Milpark, Johannesburg
Time: 10:00 – 17:00
Motto: Non Stop. Embracing What It Means to GRYND in a Digital Age.
Record. Post. Elevate Your Bag.
And transform your future.
