NPO keeps young people engaged

MUSIC AND STEM, (SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING AND MATHS) HAVE STRONG CONNECTION

- KEANAN HARMSE

A group of young musicians came together in the spirit of Youth Day and performed at Jupiter Primary School in Ocean View on Friday 13 June.

This year, the Izivunguvungu Mediterranean Ship Company (MSC) Music Groups honoured the theme of “Skills for the changing world”, said founder Commander Mike Oldham.

Youth Day is a South African national holiday that falls on June 16 and honours the contribution of young people to the struggle against apartheid.

Izivunguvungu, which in Isizulu means “sudden strong wind”, is a registered non-profit organisation (NPO) based in Simon’s Town. It provides educational and musical programmes for disadvantaged youth.

Oldham is a former Navy Director of Music. He teaches music groups in the areas around Simon’s Town and the new Dido Valley community.

He says skills development through reading, practising and performing music is highly beneficial for young people and supports their focus with their career choices.