In the heart of Hout Bay, a transformative journey is unfolding. Amoyo Performing Arts Foundation is using the power of dance, drama, and song to uplift at-risk youth, providing them with not only artistic skills but also the critical life skills they need to thrive.
Through its comprehensive after-school and holiday programmes, Amoyo is changing lives, one performance at a time.
The foundation was established by Kim, Nandipha, and Mandisa, who were inspired by their existing working and volunteering experiences in the community. Witnessing the struggles faced by young girls at the Victim Support Centre—particularly issues related to self-expression, self-worth, and a lack of hope—drove Kim to join forces with Mandisa and Nandipha to create a safe space for children, recognising the urgent need for positive after-school activities to also help combat high rates of teenage pregnancy and crime. Thus, Amoyo was born with a mission to empower youth from Imizamo Yethu and Hangberg.
The foundation offers a variety of after-school and holiday programmes that integrate performing arts with essential life skills training. Classes are designed for children from Grade 1 to Matric and include the full complement of dance, drama, and singing instruction. These programmes not only enhance artistic abilities but also develop self-esteem, resilience, and accountability among participants.
Key Achievements Over the Years
- Over the past decade, the foundation has achieved significant milestones:
- 10 Years of Service: Successfully operating for ten years with 30-40 performing arts classes weekly.
- Academic Improvements: Enhanced academic performance at Silikamva High School, with teachers noting positive behavioural changes among Amoyo students.
- Awards and Recognition: Received a Ministerial Award of Excellence within two years of establishment and endorsement from the Alvin Ailey American Dance Theatre Company.
- Community Engagement: Regular performances at prestigious events such as the Artscape Schools Festival and the National Arts Festival in Makhanda.
The foundation is open to potential collaborations that will further enrich its programmes. Last year’s partnership with the Ingoma Choir resulted in a powerful production at the Makhanda Arts Festival, setting a precedent for future projects.
Despite its successes, the foundation faces challenges typical of non-profit organisations. Funding remains a significant hurdle, limiting resources and operational capabilities. The foundation currently operates from multiple venues across Hout Bay, which complicates logistics and can hinder student attendance
Amoyo expresses deep gratitude to its supporters—both private donors and corporate partners—for their ongoing commitment to its mission. The foundation encourages continued community engagement through donations that help sustain its programmes and whether private or corporate all donations are eligible to receive a section 18A tax exemption certificate and bbeee compliance status.
Join us for our upcoming production Stargazing at Artscape—a celebration of our students’ talent and dedication. Together, we can continue to uplift the youth of Hout Bay through the arts.
For more information about Amoyo Performing Arts Foundation, please do visit their website at https://amoyo.org/ and follow them on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AmoyoFoundation and Instagram https://www.instagram.com/amoyofoundation/ with different insights shared on Amoyo CEO’s LinkedIn profile
