TO make a difference by empowering young, creative minds. This is what drives Montclair mover and shaker, Nonhlanhla Buthelezi. The qualified sound engineer has embarked on an exciting initiative to open doors of previously unimaginable possibilities to youth who come from disadvantaged backgrounds.
Her brainchild, the Rural and Township Technical Development Programme is focused on developing the technical skills of young people, specifically women, within the music and entertainment industry. The programme, which has been a dream for Nonhlanhla, became a reality last year when she received funding from National Arts Council (NAC).
“After working in the industry for many years I experienced a lot of challenges as well as a lack of women and sisterhood in the field. So, there was always a desire in me to challenge or change this in order to break the stigma. The goal is to fill the gap in the technical aspect of the entertainment industry that is male dominated, hence on this programme we have 80 per cent of female participants,” she said.
The programme consists of three modules; sound, light and stage management. It currently runs in various communities including Durban Central, Umgababa, Umthwalume and KwaMbonambi where she closely works with the respective municipalities to select disadvantaged youth, between the ages of 18 and 35, to sign up for the three-month programme.
“By the end of this programme they are equipped with skills and knowledge which will increase their employability and/or start their own businesses. This programme is an incubator that will become the mainstream supplier of mainly female labour to the production houses, churches and other platforms in KwaZulu-Natal.”
The 32-year-old shared that the initiative has been going well, with promising feedback from potential sponsors as well as the participants who have gained a wealth of knowledge and expertise. “This is something new for the youth, so initially, I wasn’t too sure how receptive they would be to it, but hearing their positive comments has brought a sense of fulfilment in me.”
“Growing up, I loved TV so much that at the age of six, I already knew I wanted to work in the entertainment industry. I had no idea how I would achieve this dream nor was I informed at school about career opportunities in this field. After matric I even considered doing civil engineering. It was only after I met a guy by chance, who informed me about sound engineering and I never looked back. It if it wasn’t for him, I probably wouldn’t have tapped into my passion. I want to bridge the gap between the youth and the industry. I want to disseminate information, develop skills and empower,” said a determined Nonhlanhla.
For more information on this programme call 076-765-5809 or send an email to buthelezinonhlanhlafanele@gmail.com
