Maponya Mall Community Hub and American Corner host learners for historical lesson

The U.S Consulate General Johannesburg in partnership with Maponya Mall Community Hub hosted high school learners from Pimville for the screening of the movie The Colour Purple of Thursday.

The screening of the film coincided with celebrations of Black history month in the United States.

Due to the shared struggles of the black society both in South Africa and America, these two organisations saw it fit to celebrate with township learners the struggle and triumph of black people in the world.

Jeff Ladenson, Public Affairs Officer for the Consulate General said, “Black History Month is an important time of the year when we celebrate and acknowledge the contributions and accomplishments of African Americans throughout history.

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“The new adaptation of The Color Purple has been described as a heartfelt and moving musical that combines the best aspects of the novel, the Broadway musical, and the 1985 film adaptation.”

On that note these organisations came together to launch the American Corner at the Hub which aims to provide young people with access to technology without any costs.

“As part of the cultural experiment we also saw the importance of introducing these young people to the American Corner, that will expose the youth and learners to opportunities that exist outside of South Africa,” said Sandile Nyembe, manager at the Hub.

While South Africa has a high rate of unemployment and economic crisis, there are organisations that stand to better the living standards of the young people of Soweto.

Sharon Radebe, Marketing Manager at the Hub said the youth will not be left in despondency anymore but there are programmes that are pushing them a step closer to attaining their dreams.

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“It is our responsibility to take care of our freedom. Young people should always aim to leave foot prints of how we will be remembered.

“Groove and social media followers are nice but what will be your impact in your community,” asked Radebe.

The American Comer will provide young people with free access to Wi-Fi and a place to learn about entrepreneurial and educational opportunities in the United States.

It also supports skills development programmes such as STEM clubs, and programmes about U.S. culture, music, sports and art free of charge. The Hub is urging young people to utilise this space for their growth and improvement.