While the Hollywood Bets Durban July is generally a playground for the high and mighty it also provided opportunities for small business operators like street photographer and filmmaker Nkululeko Paul.
“I have started doing videos and filmmaking professionally, and the Durban July helps me to showcase my skills,” said Paul, who operates under the brand Sizolwami Ark in Motion Picture.
During the event, he charged R20 per photo and used the opportunity to network with fellow creatives, even connecting with famous filmmakers with hopes to collaborate in the future.
However, not everything ran smoothly. Paul recalled being harassed by security guards who did not understand the role of street photographers, despite his having purchased a general access ticket.
“Some were chasing us out, telling us we were not allowed to take pictures. But I run a legitimate small business. I am just trying to grow,” he said.
SMEs in Durban and surrounding townships capitalised on the economic surge generated by the annual Hollywoodbets Durban July held at the Greyville Racecourse.
While the main event attracted tens of thousands of visitors, its economic impact extended far beyond the venue.
It created opportunities for local businesses ranging from guesthouses and food vendors to fashion designers, makeup artists, and street photographers.
According to the eThekwini Municipality, the 2025 edition of the event generated R278 million in direct spending and injected an estimated R690 million into the city’s GDP, making it one of the most lucrative weekends of the year for local businesses.
Victoria Thulare, creative director at The XVIII Victorian, a fashion house in Durban, said the Durban July is one of the few events that place the country’s full attention on local fashion talent.
“The Durban July does bring social media traction. It is the one day of the year when South African attention is truly on fashion and designers. This strengthens our presence and highlights our creativity,” she said.
However, Thulare added that small fashion businesses like hers still face challenges in fully realising their vision due to limited access to collaborators and technical talent.
“Most of our challenges come from finding great creatives to collaborate with to showcase the story of our creations properly, from photography and makeup to the Muse. Everyone has a hand in bringing the concept to life,” she said.
She urged the public to use their social media platforms more constructively by celebrating and promoting local artists instead of tearing them down.
While events like the Durban July give SMEs the exposure and momentum they need, both Paul and Victoria agree that ongoing support, equipment sponsorships, and collaborative networks are critical to ensure that small businesses can not only participate in high-profile events but also scale beyond them.
nosihle@vutivibusiness.co.za
