Skydiving is a sport that appeals to many because of the thrill of the adrenalin rush. However, others are more worried about their personal safety, and would not trust themselves to jump out of an aeroplane. This piece investigates the dangers of skydiving, and follows the entire training process of two men about to jump. We see them learning the theory, and then learning the practical side. It reveals how seriously EP Skydiver’s, based outside Grahamstown, take their safety precautions.
Amnesty International is a worldwide movement which campaigns internationally for human rights for all citizens. This public service announcement aims to fight and make people aware of the discrimination that is taking place in various societies. This PSA cleverly uses the symbolism of jelly babies to represent race and colour, while at the same time playing on the children’s preferences for which colour jelly babies they like as a form of inclusion (acceptance) and exclusion (discrimination). We must fight discrimination- it is not fair!!!
These are two women of vastly different ages who give an insight into their thoughts on crime and how it affects their community. This respose came after virewing a document, titled “Taverns at Tantyi” which showed how they are a hot spot for crime in the area. The community came with many ideas about how crime could be solved in the community, with the young and the old getting involved. What was important was then feeling as though their opinions did matter, and that what they had to say was valuable. In that regard, civic journalism is important because it is journalism ultimatley made by the public., They are the news, they matter. With a sensitive issue like crime, a sensitive approach is needed. It is difficult because you are essentially opening up old wounds for people and asking them to revivist painful memories. But what was interesting to note was that the kind of neighbourhood meeting we had, allowed for a safe space where people did not need to feel intimidated or afraid to share their stories and opinions.
-A story by Grethe and Sbosh-
This blog takes a look at some of the initiatives in Grahamstown which aim to use art to develop the youth. Such projects use art, dance, drama, poetry and play as a means to keep youngsters out of trouble.
Egazini Arts and Crafts Outreach Project
This blog takes a look at some of the initiatives in Grahamstown which aim to use art to develop the youth. Such projects use art, dance, drama, poetry and play as a means to keep youngsters out of trouble.
We visited the Egazini Arts and Crafts Outreach Project, run by Bongani Diko. This group uses drama to stimulate some of the youth in the townships. This group has been so successful that they are performing at this years National Arts Festival. Their show is entitled ” My Xhosa”. Simply click on the link below to find out more about their performance…
We went to watch one of their rehearsals, and spoke to Diko about the impact that this initiative has on these youngsters’ lives. For this exclusive preview watch the short video clip below…
Hope you enjoyed that?
Let us know if you are planning on attending the show by commenting below…
We also compiled a slideshow of some of the artwork that is created at Egazini. There are many artists who work on commission to produce linocuts, paintings, etchings and wood cuts.
This project uses dance to help the under-privileged youth of Grahamstown become excited about their talents.
To hear what Buckland had to say about this project listen to this audio clip…
Keep Kids Off the Streets
We also uncovered a new inititaive called Keep Kids Off the Streets (KKOTS). This intitive is run by local community members who are trying to keep the youth out of mischief. This project runs every Saturday at the Recreation Hall in Tantyi township. It is the collaborative project of the Centre for Social Development (CSD) and volunteers from Rhodes University and around Grahamstown.
Carol Johnson, from the CSD, spoke to us about this new initiative. Listen to the audio clip that we compiled below…
Raphael HIV testing and support CentreThe Raphael Centre located in Grahamstown, South Africa is a HIV/AIDS testing and support centre. Lately, though, this haven for people infected or affected by the virus has been rought by troubles. The future of the centre is uncertain as it needs sponsors to ensure it’s survival. Meanwhile other issues, like an objecting neighbour are also posing problems for the centre which helps over 1 000 people every month.
