Who
- The Jesus Collective is a South African evangelical music organisation founded by Hilton Petersen in 2013.
- It consists of both well-known and up-and-coming gospel musicians and singers who share a passion for spreading the gospel through music.
- The organisation also partners with established South African artists and community leaders who mentor young musicians from previously disadvantaged backgrounds.
- Local Partners include: Ntokozo Mbambo, HLE, Khaya Mthethwa, Loyiso Bala, Xola Toto, Charnell Joseph, Max Mqhakayi, Don Vino, Ernie Smith and many more.
- International Partners include: Producer; Asaph A Ward, worshipers; Sharon Ann, and Michael Bethany.
What
- The Jesus Collective hosts concerts, tours, and outreach events that bring local and world-class gospel artists to communities that would otherwise never have the chance to experience such performances.
- Unlike commercial events, Hilton personally funds these concerts, ensuring that people — especially in the poorest areas — can attend without ticket sales or barriers.
- The organisation also focuses on mentorship, helping aspiring musicians grow both in their craft and in their faith.
- From these community outreaches, demand grew for the group’s music, leading to two albums — Restored, which won Album of the Year at the Crown Gospel Music Awards, and FLOW Vol. 1, now available, with Vol. 2 releasing in early 2026. This birthed Collective Records, FLOW:, Fearless Lovers Of Worship, the commercial arm of The Jesus Collective’s ministry, which focuses on producing impactful albums and developing artist solo careers.
Where
- The Jesus Collective operates across South Africa and Africa, with a mission and vision to extend globally.
- Events are often staged in poor or rural towns where opportunities to experience major gospel performances are rare or non-existent.
Founder Hilton Petersen grew up in Ashton, a small town in the Western Cape Winelands, where he spent 18 years living in a tin shack, shaping his heart for those living in poverty. He now resides in Johannesburg with his family.
Why
- Hilton’s vision for The Jesus Collective is rooted in his own story: growing up in poverty, raised by his prayerful mother Sandra, who taught him the power of worship and unity in Christ.
- The Jesus Collective is inspired by the story of David in Saul’s service (1 Samuel 16:14–24), where David’s music brought peace and healing to Saul — a reminder of the power of worship to restore and uplift the spirit. He believes that worship unites communities and draws God’s presence, which is why bringing powerful gospel music to all people — from the wealthiest to the most impoverished — is central to the mission.
- By mentoring musicians and creating spaces where people can encounter God’s love through music, The Jesus Collective seeks to uplift communities, inspire hope, and transform lives.
For more information visit www.thejesuscollectivesa.co.za
Listen: https://thejesuscollective.hearnow.com/
Follow The Jesus Collective on socials:
https://www.youtube.com/c/TheJesusCollective
https://www.facebook.com/thejesuscollectivesa
https://www.instagram.com/thejesuscollectivesa/