Empowering youth through the arts in KwaDukuza

Simphiwe Sokhaya hopes to give youth the opportunity of a better life through the arts.

With his Ulwazi Lwethu programme, the Shaka’s Head resident is giving youngsters a creative platform to perform and address personal issues through art.

“We have major problems with drugs and crime in the townships. Children not playing sport have too much free time on their hands with no proper structures in place, and that’s when negative things develop,” said Sokhaya.

Sokhaya believes art can fill that void, and Ulwazi Lwethu holds regular events across KwaDukuza where they perform and open the stage for anyone.

“We have 25 people in the programme and we perform drama, poetry and music shows. After that, anyone who wants to can perform and we have seen everything from gumboot dancing and rap to modelling,” he said.

Last weekend the group travelled to Nkobongo where they hosted an event in conjunction with the Khuphuka Global Foundation, which does similar work there.

They rely on personal funding and help from individuals to sustain the programme.

“Sport receives funding from the municipality but culture is left behind. ActionSA KwaDukuza councillor, Stephne Ashworth, has been our biggest supporter and always tries to help out where possible, but any extra support would be huge,” he said.

For now, Ulwazi Lwethu are looking to source costumes for their members to perform in, but would also appreciate support for transport and audio equipment going forward.

Call 073 353 5649 or email ulwazilwethu488@gmail.com to find out more.

Their upcoming events this month are on Saturday in Thembeni and on April 27 in Shaka’s Head.

Visit Ulwazi Lwethu Art and Entertainment on Facebook to keep up to date with performances going forward.

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