MOKOPANE – The annual Children’s Parent Day at Piet Potgieter Monument Old Age Home started with an electrifying beat this year when around 80 drums were played in unison, thanks to an unforgettable session led by The Drum Cafe.

The interactive drumming experience set the tone for a day filled with laughter, music and community spirit. Residents, joined by their children and families, embraced the rhythm and connection that drumming naturally brings.

Itumeleng Nkhuna, a facilitator from The Drum Cafe, shared the story behind the initiative.

Founded in Johannesburg in 1994 by Warren Lieberman, the concept began as a weekly gathering of friends brought together by a shared passion for communal drumming. The group quickly grew, leading to the establishment of the first Drum Cafe venue, a small shop with a cozy restaurant and performance stage.

Lieberman, who later trained under master djembe drummer Adama Drame, expanded the concept internationally in 2002.

Today, Drum Cafe has branches in America, Asia, Australia, Canada, Germany and the UK. The organisation is now known globally for using drumming to build trust and team spirit.

“Drumming together breaks down barriers. Within minutes, we turn any group into a powerful percussive orchestra. It’s about togetherness, rhythm and joy,” said Nkhuna.

After the drumming session, guests shared a hearty, delicious meal and many remarked how the shared rhythm had brought generations closer together.