CHICAGO, IL / CHARLOTTE, NC (AUGUST 16, 2024) – Suite929tv has embarked on expansion plans in South Africa, where the FAST channel will produce and distribute local content for a global audience. New programming is scheduled to debut Q1 2025.
“We’ll build on these milestones to grow our network while continuing to invest in supporting local creative communities and giving more and more African storytellers an amplified voice on the global stage,” said Managing Director Chuck Holliday, who will make South Africa his secondary production home throughout the calendar year.
Suite929tv also promised to continue to invest in local economies and fund local workshops in Port Elizabeth.
“The expansion of our operations to South Africa is a good thing for 929,” Suite929 Global Content Officer Tati Muniz stated.
Suite929 SA will be headquartered in Johannesburg’s Sandton district, which alongside Cape Town and Port Elizabeth will serve as the primary hubs for production.
“I’m thrilled to be part of Suite929’s expansion into South Africa. The potential for original content in such a dynamic and diverse market is exciting, and I’m eager to contribute to telling authentic stories that resonate across both local and global audiences,” said Suite929tv Producer/Host Christen Rochon. “This is an incredible opportunity to collaborate with creatives and producers on the ground while bringing fresh perspectives to our growing international platform.”
Unique perspectives & diverse stories
New series heading to Suite929tv for 2025 include:
“UBOMI ESIBUPHILAYO” debuts from Johannesburg (Q1 2025). Focusing on the happy side of leisure and staycations, this series explores the aura and history behind destinations throughout South Africa.
“VIVA LA VINO” goes on a tour of Restaurants and Hotels to establish Wine pairings for Enthusiasts and first time drinkers. Hosted by Award Winning Producers Chuck “Holliday” Williams and Cyreyne “Freedom” Aviles, the birthday twins (both born on April 16, 1976) and production collaborators with African roots will “take viewers on a journey to under the radar destinations and advise on how to pair Wine with everyday foods in simple, easily digested terms.”
“BITE CLUB” (Blvd Bites: SA) spotlights Africa’s most exciting and revolutionary restaurants, providing the first look and the last word in everything extreme in food today. The locations range from high-end dining rooms to casual neighborhood treasures and even roving eateries with no permanent addresses.
“UZALWE UKWENZA” takes viewers behind the scenes of the historic National Arts Festival (NAF) with in-depth interviews and commentary from past NAF performers and staff on the inner workings and staying power involved with the long-running Makhanda-based festival. (Q2 2025)