NEW GROUP AIMS TO EMPOWER THE YOUTH
Anew community project has been launched with the aim of improving the lives of young people in Howick and the surrounding areas.
The inaugural meeting was held at Angels’ Care Centre’s base at the Agricultural Hall and included representatives from Serame Thulo Foundation, which uses football to empower the youth, Zithande Community Development, which aims to empower people to make behavioural changes, and Darlington Michael’s Melisizwe Community Theatre company.
They were brought to the Midlands by Moses Kilozo, a local filmmaker and photographer, who is keen to see a partnership developed with Angels’ Care and pupils at Thembelihle School.
Matthew Cocks, the director of the care centre in Morling Street and the school in Main Road, told those present that they wanted to provide a holistic education to those in their care. Other objectives are to encourage youth development through an aftercare programme where children get meals, homework assistance and the chance to play football.
During the meeting those present discussed ways in which they could use sport and the arts to uplift the lives of young people.
While plans still have to be finalised, the participants said they were keen to get involved in a two-day event in December. This will coincide with Angels’ Care’s Christmas party and will include a soccer tournament, with entertainment provided by local musicians and entertainers.
Before then, however, the participants are planning to host a workshop on November 20 to formalise the partnerships between Angels’ Care and the other stakeholders.