09 December 2009

 Isipho CreACTive Centre Isipho leader, Khululiwe Mabanga and her group outdid themselves in preparing for their celebration on the 7^th of December.  Using beaded and embroidered and grass-woven products, their idea of ‘celebration’ could be experienced in the artistically festive atmosphere achieved.  From the newly painted mural, hand-made trees, mosaiced floor and beautifully beaded tablecloths.  All this handy- work was sealed by gifts of tiny white-beaded ribbons, which each and every guest received as Isipho marked their support of the 16 days of activism against woman and child abuse initiative.  Visionary words and appreciation spoken by the older to the younger participants and vice versa affirmed Khululiwe’s message when she said;  “Isipho’s aim is to open the young minds to possibilities.”Responding to the Ukube Ngangazi play that the kids conceptualized, wrote and performed, 63- year-old Mama Mathenjwa, who was the MC, added that; “amidst hopeless situations caused by HIV/AIDS related challenges both at school and home, as the elderly of Isipho, we want to leave the youth with something of tangible value to hold on to.”  Also present to witness Isipho’s flourishing harvest were the local municipal representative Mr. Sibusiso Zulu, local Zitike Primary schoolteacher Mr. Mduduzi Mthimkhulu and the parents.   Our thanks cannot be voiced enough for their support as well as the astounding contribution of Mrs. Ntombemhlophe Ngwenya, who remains the pillar of support for Khululiwe.   

 Ulwazi CreACTive Centre The 29^th of November saw parents and guardians of the Ulwazi group gathered for their end-of-year celebration.  As is their typical norm, a variety of performances by the group were showed off to this vital audience. Commemorating itself as the hub of the Caversham’s Masabelaneni- let us share initiative, Ulwazi’s celebration drew from its vision of self-belief through self-expression.  A documentary dating from the centre’s inception until present, as well as an inspirational movie was shown.  Laying the ground for insightful conversations between the Caversham team, parents and the youth to be shared.  The success of this event was evidenced in the very positive response from all who came.