THE Wentworth Arts and Culture Organisation, a cornerstone in community development through arts and culture, faces significant financial hurdles which are jeopardising its three-decade legacy.

Despite its longstanding dedication and impactful initiatives with disadvantaged youth, individuals with disabilities and vulnerable populations, the organisation teeters on the edge of closure due to insufficient funding.

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In a plea to rally support and maintain their operations, the Wentworth Arts and Culture Organisation calls upon the community for assistance. Jarryd Watson, the organisation’s artistic director, emphasises that arts and culture serve as potent tools for empowering marginalised communities and offering alternatives to prevalent social issues, such as gangsterism, crime and unemployment, within the Wentworth community.

“I have always said that art is a good foundation in teaching life values for youth and children to develop their confidence and self-esteem in achieving their goals through discipline, the importance of sacrifice and commitment,” said Watson.

The organisation offers a diverse array of programmes tailored to address the varying needs of the community:

• Inclusive, special needs and disabled training and development programme – an inclusive arts programme that gives opportunity to people living with disabilities to develop their performing skills, arts administration and business skills.
• Arts in school programme – teaching free drama, dance and music lessons in marginalised schools and facilitating the enhancement of life skills (Creative arts, PSW & PE,) CAPs curriculum.
• Rural and arts development – providing arts activities in rural areas.

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The Dance Movement Project, a flagship programme spanning 17 years, has been pivotal in transforming the lives of numerous disadvantaged youth in Wentworth. By facilitating access to dance training, the project not only provides a creative outlet but also serves as a gateway to diverse opportunities within the arts sector.

Many programme alumni have achieved international acclaim, while others have pursued higher education with bursaries facilitated through the project.

Remaining steadfast in its commitment to empowering youth and promoting inclusivity, the Wentworth Arts and Culture Organisation endeavours to utilise the transformative power of the arts for social good. However, without adequate financial backing, its capacity to sustain this invaluable work hangs in the balance.

To support this crucial cause or participate in the programmes, individuals are encouraged to reach out to the Wentworth Arts and Culture Organisation at 082 966 6171 or via email at wentwortharts@yahoo.com.

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