MOMENT OF A LIFETIME AWAITS YOUNG TALENTS

FIVE youngsters from the Isakhono se Sizwe Arts Project in Gugulethu have scored an opportunity to showcase their cultural dance and music skills at the Choregies Festival in France next June.

For Bophelo Molelle, 10, Ntlantla Thafeni, 12, Mlungisi Xhayimpi, 10, Namhla Tyheli, 12, and Sanelisiwe Fokotho, 13, the prospect of travelling to France still feels surreal.

They are preparing for the moment of their lifetime and are determined to outwit the competition with their African-inspired traditional and contemporary township dances and songs.

Isakhono se Sizwe Project co-founder Bantu Ndika said they were made aware of the opportunity following the return of their sister organisation from a competition in Sweden.

“The kids are excited, as to them this will potentially be the first time they will be travelling out of the country. We are planning to forge a working relationship with the organisers of the festival so that we are able to send another five kids on the next round. I believe they are ready as we have been doing this for long and we have recently been performing, including at Artscape and other theatres.

“While this might be overwhelming, this opportunity means a lot to them and the community because they would not only represent Gugulethu or our province but also the entire country. There are rare opportunities for young kids from disadvantaged areas that are able to travel abroad for starters, and when such an opportunity presents itself, it’s important that we make all means necessary to fulfil their dream,” he said.

Ndika said the children would be in France for five days, competing in three rounds leading up to the final. He said they were looking for financial contributions as the project was currently not funded.

“We are looking to raise funds for their return flights and accommodation. We currently do not have a targeted amount that we are seeking to raise, but we believe that we have ample time to raise funds with the initiatives we have embarked on,” he said.

Sanelisiwe Fokotho said they were looking forward to the competition and were determined to win and inspire their peers.

To make a contribution to the project and help fulfil the dreams of these youngsters, contact Bantu Ndika at 061 335 4007.