By: Zethu Gweva
Multi-talented Mandlakazi Batyashe, 31, from Mdantsane has dedicated her life to transferring her creative arts skills to the teens of Mdantsane to keep them away from drug and alcohol abuse.
The Singer, Actress and Traditional Jewellery Designer known as Mfazindini said as part of giving back to the community, in February 2019 she started conducting Creative and Performing Arts sessions in her house.
Batyashe added that the aim of the sessions is to teach children skills and to keep them busy during school holidays and after school.
“I live in a community where a lot of people are unemployed. I conduct these art sessions to protect them from the dangers of drug use and criminality and to ensure that they have a bright future,” she said.
According to the 31-year-old, she teaches 15 children of all ages, boys and girls from different backgrounds. She administers the sessions on Saturdays, where she only takes five learners per hour.
During these sessions, children are taught how to dance, sing, act and make traditionally Jewellery.
“As Mfazindini I empower them to be independent. COVID-19 has taught me that one must have a skill that will later make them an income and not only depend on their nine to five jobs. So transferring my skills to the young ones equips them for any future scourge as they will have the talent to fall on when the time comes again,” she said.
In addition, Batyashe said the sessions are free of charge but the traditional jewellery comes at a cost. Earrings R50 and doeks R200.
“These sessions are free and I buy the material and everything else. I want to debar poverty and brighten the future of our children,” she said.
For more information contact Mandlakazi Batyashe on 078 505 2402 or email mndlakazibatyashe@gmail.com. You can also visit her Facebook page @Mfazindini.