Films

Happy Feet

A Township Story

The “Happy Feet” uplift program has provided a means of entry to a larger world for the participants from Langa Township. Through music and dance, disadvantaged youth have acquired a new belief in themselves, and the confidence to engage with communities around Cape Town and tourists from abroad. Operated on a not-for-profit basis, the program has expanded to include girls as well as boys, and attracted support internationally.

Hear My Music

The Dizu Plaatjies Story

Iconic African musician Dizu Plaatjies has achieved a career as serious scholar of Ethnomusicology at the University of Cape Town, beloved teacher, and acclaimed performer of traditional African music. He has appeared on stages around the world, and recorded dozens of albums as leader of the Amampondo and Ibuyambo ensembles. His commitment to indigenous musical traditions leads him to rural areas throughout Africa, and the promotion of traditional artists who are a living link with the past.

Music Without Borders: The Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival

demonstrates the power of culture, particularly music, to unite people of diverse origins and to overcome a a legacy of enforced separation.

Music Without Borders: The Stellenbosch International Chamber Music Festival reveals a path forward from a dark history to a contemporary society of inclusiveness and shared opportunity. The chamber music festival at Stellenbosch University brings together performers and students from diverse backgrounds who share a love of this repertoire. Students have the opportunity to appear on stage with accomplished professionals who nurture their talent. Participation is based on the individual’s commitment rather than gender, race, or socioeconomic class. As “struggle icon” Denis Goldberg said, the Festival is an optimistic sign of South Africa’s direction in the 21st century.

Gugulethu Warriors - Making Things Right! - trailer

The grassroots movement among township residents to deal with persistent issues of crime, gender violence and economic inequality when government institutions fail to provide the solutions.

Cape Town Profiles

Hazel Allies

Journalist

Journalist at a community newspaper, Athlone News, exploits print and digital media to provide disadvantaged communities with the knowledge, and power to advance while acting as a role model for the next generation.

Aviva Pelham

Performer and Musical Activist

Performer and musical activist, graces Cape Town’s stages with her own artistry, as well as promoting the compelling talent of another generation of performers from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.