SPARK Bedfordview hosts High 5 show to empower young learners

On September 23, SPARK Bedfordview will host the High 5 show, part of 3RC’s mission to educate, motivate, and inspire young learners across South Africa.

Created by Kay Cheytanov, founder of 3RC, High 5 is an interactive theatre production designed to help primary school learners cope with stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges in today’s digitally driven world.

“High 5 was born out of something personal. I watched my young daughter struggle with anxiety and depression due to bullying, and I realised we need to teach children emotional tools early, before fear and silence take root,” said Kay.

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The show equips children with five key life skills: kindness, safety, resilience, bravery, and individuality, using songs, stories, and interactive activities to make learning both fun and memorable.

A legacy of education and career guidance

Twenty-five years ago, Kay Cheytanov founded 3RC, driven by her passion for education and performance. From this vision, the Rocking Future Career Expos were born – innovative events helping high school learners across South Africa explore career paths through post-school study opportunities.

“The first year, we visited 25 schools with a full band and four colleges. In the second year, I toured alone to 80 schools to promote my single Time, which hit number two on the Top 100 in May 2002.

“That same year, I gave birth to my son, which changed the game completely. My passion shifted from being a rockstar to being a mum and businesswoman,” said Kay.

Today, the expos reach 240 schools and around 35 000 Grade 12 learners annually, supported by 46 private tertiary institutions.

Each two-hour expo includes 28 exhibitors, providing students with access to career guidance, practical workplace exposure, and study options ranging from arts and business to IT and hospitality.

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Innovation for the digital age

In 2020, during the pandemic, 3RC launched Swiwel, the world’s first-ever 3D immersive career expo. Swiwel allows learners from Grades eight to 12 across all provinces to access career information anytime, anywhere.

The platform includes Career Corner with free personality tests and career assessments, over 40 institutions, and an AI guide, SAI, which provides personalised study and career advice.

“The message I want students to take away is that success is not a straight line. Life will take you on a journey of discovery, and if you are a lifelong learner, you will always win.

“If you don’t get into the state university of your choice, life does not end. There are so many other options available. Trust the process and make well-researched, informed decisions,” said Kay.