Survé Philanthropies and Cape Heritage Museum unite for cultural preservation

Survé Philanthropies has announced a new partnership with the Cape Heritage Museum, a community-led institution located at the historic Castle of Good Hope.

Through the partnership, Survé Philanthropies will support the expansion of the museum’s collection, including portraits, artefacts, and artworks.

The collaboration also strengthens the museum’s commitment to presenting inclusive and uncensored historical narratives.

Founder and Curator of the Cape Heritage Museum, Igshaan Higgins, said: “What the Museum stands for is unapologetic freedom of speech under Section 16 of the Constitution, and the right to exhibit uncensored histories of Cape communities, including Muslims, Jews, and Christians, enslaved peoples, and indigenous Khoisan and Xhosa communities. It is a commitment that no exhibition will be silenced, only debated.”

Higgins said that with Survé Philanthropies’ support, the museum will expand its collection of portraits, artefacts, and artworks, while safeguarding its core principle, "we will not censor.”

Through its exhibitions, the Cape Heritage Museum explores themes of migration, resistance, identity, and cultural connection.

Key focus areas include Early Settlements and the First Kaapenaars (the Khoisan), the role of enslaved people in the Cape economy during the Dutch East India Company era, the cultural significance of the Bo-Kaap, the history of District Six, the legacies of Sara Baartman and Krotoa, and the political movements that shaped South Africa’s transition to democracy.

The museum also houses a Research Centre dedicated to ongoing scholarship and heritage preservation.

Beyond its exhibitions, the museum facilitates a range of community-focused programmes centred on education, youth development, leadership, and social awareness. 

Chair of Survé Philanthropies, Saarah Survé said: “This partnership represents a shared commitment to safeguarding cultural memory and ensuring that South Africa’s diverse histories remain accessible, preserved, and open to dialogue. It reinforces the importance of heritage spaces in fostering reflection, public engagement, and deeper understanding across communities.”

Survé added: “Together, Survé Philanthropies and the Cape Heritage Museum aim to ensure that heritage remains a living conversation that connects the past with future generations.”

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Cape Argus