Storytelling with a difference
Serving as a wholesome approach and a positive social outlet, the space keeps the children off the streets and out of trouble, under Esmeen Usher’s maternal guidance.
WITH the vision to create a safe, educational and empowering space for young curious minds, the Ogle Road Storytelling Space was born. The brainchild of community leader Esmeen Usher, who together with a team of volunteers created an intimate bonfire style space where children in the community from the age of two up to teens aged 14 years old, come together to express themselves, listen to their elders share folktales, receive worthy advice and guidance to help them through the rocky road that is life.
The initiative was inspired by a similar initiative in Austerville. Esmeen soon realised that the children of Ogle Road also needed something just as productive as a positive outlet. “This space is literally run by these children. They hold meetings, take down minutes, come up with ideas for fundraising. This helps them understand how the real world works and that they too, will one day go into a corporate environment. The children get to share with each other on how to deal with social issues they face. A pastor also comes and guides them and teaches them about God. Then of course there is the storytelling, reading, singing, dancing and braaing of marshmallows which is a delight for the children,” she explained.
Serving as a wholesome approach and a positive social outlet, the space keeps the children off the streets and out of trouble, under Esmeen’s maternal guidance. “In our community children can easily be led astray and having this environment helps them avoid that while becoming empowered individuals. They love this space, and it is theirs to enjoy,” she said.
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