Sizabantu operates from community centre, helps others
Sizabantu has become a home and support system for the community.
There is an African proverb that says “it takes a village to raise a child” meaning as a community, if we see one in need, we should come together to help in any way we can.
Nomsa Tolbart, founder of Sizabantu Development Arts and Culture, understands this proverb very well and she is using her love of arts and culture to raise the youth in Jeppestown and surrounding areas.
Sizabantu, meaning ‘helping others’, operates from Bertha Solomon Community Centre.
“Sizabantu is all about skills development especially the youth who are often the victims of alcohol and drugs abuse. I wanted to offer them something to look forward to and also showcase their talent,” said Tolbart.
She said art has always been her first love and when she saw that children in the area love arts too, she was inspired to start Sizabantu.
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“The first time I saw the children dance I was inspired by them. At that time I was staying in Jeppe Oval in a small room. I would gather all the children in the area to my small room and practice dancing and singing.
“That is when I knew I wanted to help them by supporting their talents,” said Tolbart.
She said Sizabantu has become a home and support system for the community.
“When people need help they come to me and I try to assist where I can. There was a time in 2014 after a shack fire in Mangolongolo where people came to me and asked for help.
“I did not know what to do but I went out to ask for donations and by God’s grace someone answered.
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“I then realised that Sizabantu has a role to play in the community,” explained Tolbart.
She said children do different genre of music from gospel, soul to hip-hop.
“We have different groups because we want the children to do a genre that they are comfortable in and understand.
“Music is a way of communication and allowing the children to perform allows them to tell their stories,” said Tolbart.
She said the journey has not been easy and there are challenges.
“Lack of support can demotivate any good cause. We depend on donations and sometimes when someone closes a door on you, you might want to give up.
“I try to stay motivated because I always think of the children and those who need our help and I carry on. We also need a venue because the community hall sometimes clashes with our times.
“If someone is willing to offer space for us to gather, we would appreciate it,” said Tolbart.
She said they will be launching a women’s forum because they have seen a need for one in the area.
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“We will launch the forum in September for Region F. This forum is not political and we will be discussing issues that affect women and look at how we can assist them.
“It’s all about women and how we can create jobs and how we can protect our children from rape and human trafficking,” said Tolbart.
She said women have an important role to play in society.
“Without women, society would not strive because they carry families. Women go through hardships but always come out strong,” said Tolbart.
