The Soweto Theatre marked Nelson Mandela International Day by hosting a daylong symposium for aspiring arts and culture practitioners to share information on how to access funding. Although it was a cold, wintry day, the weather soon broke as the festivities began, with a very classy set up of a big screen and chairs placed in the theatre square so that all attendees could enjoy the day’s speeches and activities.
The keynote speaker was Princess Nqakwana of Teen Talk, a youth health education programme that assists adolescents with sexuality, reproductive health, body image, substance use awareness, mental health, diversity issues, and anti-violence issues.
Nqakwana encouraged the scores of young people in attendance not to be afraid to seek help when confronted with social ills.
“We adhere to the belief that by providing youth with accurate, non-judgemental information, they can make healthier decisions and choices for themselves. We are responsible for helping teenagers express themselves when faced with gender-based violence, teenage pregnancy, and other societal challenges young people face,” she explained.
She said young people should reach out to the organisation because it is available for home visits too. “We provide a free space for teenagers to express themselves,” she added.
“We also assist teenagers with schoolwork, including literature, and host beauty pageants to help teenagers boost their self-esteem.”
Nqakwana invited young people in the arts sector to get in touch with Teen Talk to participate in talent search programmes, including singing, poetry, or writing. “We aim to help teenagers get their minds off the social ills they face,” she said.
Lebogang Ditshwene, from the National Arts Council of South Africa (NAC), an agency of the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture told attendees about the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme, designed to cushion people in the arts from the economic impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on jobs and livelihoods.
Ditshwene said the Presidential Employment Stimulus Programme was tailored to stimulate the arts and culture sector through a cash injection.
“The fund is mainly targeting young people, women, and people with disabilities. Young people involved in projects like dance, music, visual art, craft, multidiscipline and literature should apply,” she urged.
Noma Phakane from Esethu IsiXhosa Publishers advised young people to study journalism, so they can publish stories that can build the nation.
The day’s activities wrapped up with an entertaining performance by an up-and-coming artist. There was also a moment of silence in honour of Nelson Mandela, with his 20 April 1964 “I Am Prepared to Die” speech delivered from the dock of the defendant at the Rivonia Trial, played out at the venue.
Attendees called on the theatre to host more similar events in the future.
Written by Muziwenhlanhla Coka
18/07/2022