Con Amore field band opens Valuable 500 Africa Summit
Learners from Con Amore School showcase inclusive talent at the Valuable 500 Africa Summit 2025, highlighting the power of music and inclusion.
The Field Band Foundation (FBF) celebrated a historic moment on September 11, as members of the Con Amore School Field Band, a school for children with special needs, opened the prestigious Valuable 500 Africa Summit 2025.
This performance went beyond music; it was a powerful reminder that when young people are given opportunities to belong, participate, and express themselves, their abilities shine brighter than their limitations.
The Con Amore Field Band showcased their talent before global leaders, changemakers, and advocates for inclusion, sending a clear message that every child has value and a voice.
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“This is a proud moment for our school,” said Con Amore School speech therapist Anlie du Preez. “Our Field Band members, from a school for learners with special needs, had the honour of opening the summit.
“Their performance reminds us that when young people are given the chance to belong, their abilities shine brighter than their limitations.”
What began as an after-school programme has grown into an integrated school-based model that reaches children of all ages and abilities. At Con Amore, the Field Band programme is woven into the school day, enabling learners with diverse needs to gain confidence, discipline, and joy through music.
“This moment is a testament to the vision of inclusion we hold dear,” said Ushama Ross Jerrier, CEO of the Field Band Foundation.
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“To see our Con Amore members take the stage at an international summit demonstrates not only their courage and talent, but also the profound impact of integrating music and movement into education for learners of all abilities.”
The Field Band Foundation’s participation in the summit reflects the growing recognition of inclusive arts education as a driver of social change.
By partnering with schools, parents, and communities, FBF continues to create safe spaces where children with and without disabilities can grow together, building resilience, belonging, and future opportunities.
