A non-profit organisation, Swanix, aims to promote and celebrate culture and heritage in Mpumalanga.
This organisation was launched at the Colonel’s Leopard Lounge on Saturday February 24.
The Medley River Band provided the entertainment, with the live music consisting of their songs and covers of some well-known ones, all loved by the attendees. Some local traders had stalls showcasing and selling their locally made goods and arts and crafts.
One of Swanix’s founders, Juhann Swanepoel, said the launch was a taste of what the organisation aims to do in the Mbombela community. “We want to create a platform that will give young creatives exposure to whatever their market could be, whether it is music or vendors.”
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The organisation was founded in August by Swanepoel and Princess Lushaba. Swanepoel said the inspiration behind founding this organisation comes from his love of culture and heritage. “I am also inspired by the internationally acclaimed South African choir, Ndlovu Youth Choir. There are different cultures in Mpumalanga that are so inspirational, and these are cultures needed to be nurtured and create awareness about to be known all over.”
He said the organisation’s mission is to create a better future for the youth to experience and grow their brands. “Moreover, as for the music such as the Medley River Band showcased, and creative arts, we hope to venture into the educational field to uplift schools and create job opportunities.”
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He said some of the plans they are already working towards are fundraising events for programmes, which include school and community outreach campaigns.