Cape collective helps families, choirs thrive online

A LOCAL NPO hopes its work will inspire, unite, and empower artists and communities across the city.

During the 12 years of its existence, the Cape Cultural Collective (CCC) has brought people together through arts and culture.

They run regular cultural programmes and hold concerts, have three choirs (Rosa Junior Choir , Rosa Senior Choir and Wesley Practising

School choir), host theatre productions and run human-rights programmes.

The collective has relied on funds raised through the funding platform the Circle of Culture – a network where supporters contribute a minimum of R150 per month. All money raised is used in their projects.

During the pandemic, they have kept busy by arranging online practices for their choirs, organising food drives for the vulnerable families of their young singers, and strengthening their administrative, communication and resource capacities.

The collective has planned initiatives for the rest of the year.

Director of the Rosa junior and senior choirs, Tersia Harley said: “Sometimes we forget how blessed we are if we are able to do things other people can’t. I feel for everyone, both the artists and communities.

“Giving people the support they need is really important. In this case it is helping communities who are already struggling. This has been a great part of what the Cape Cultural

Collective has been doing.”

Rosa choir member, Mike Metcalfe, said he had been hosting Zoom practice sessions for the choirs.

“Since Zoom does not handle multi-voices all at once, members need to switch off their mics and listen to the coach who takes us through our paces.

“We cannot hear each other sing but it is great to see everyone at practice each week,” he said.

For more information, email capeculturalcollective@gmail.com or WhatsApp 084 661 5216.

SUPPLIED THE Rosa Senior Choir gave an uplifting performance. |