Tafelsig children were kept busy with indigenous games, information sessions and snacks in a safe space during a two-day school holiday programme earlier this week.
The programme was put together by Chrysalis Academy Youth Hub Ambassador for Mitchell’s Plain, Nathan Wildeman.
Just last month he started working at the Nelson Mandela Youth and Family Centre, where he kept children busy with games and activities.
They played boardgames like Ncuvu/Morula and Morabaraba, Jukskei and three sticks.
Mr Wilderman, who is from Strandfontein, is a 2012 graduate from the academy, trained as a welder but about three years ago changed his career to youth development.
He said his three-month stint at the Tokai-based academy was an opportunity to better himself.
“The academy is geared towards holistic youth development and trauma healing.
“His said after his graduation he had worked in Worcester and has had the opportunity to share his experience with other young people,” he said.
Mr Wilderman said that the holiday programme was to share, create and introduce a safe space for children to meet and assist them address social ills, like gangsterism, substance abuse and domestic violence.
He was supported by community workers, neighbourhood watch members, the academy, its graduates, Young Men’s Christian Association (YMCA) Cape Flats, and the department of cultural affairs and Sport (DCAS).
Youth motivated to contribute positively to society can apply to the academy until the end of July.
They must be aged between 18 and 25, have passed Grade 9, not be employed or at another education and training centre; not have a criminal record and be a resident of the Western Cape.
For online applications visit www.chrysalisacademy.org.za; all application forms and supporting documents must sent to applications@chrysalisacademy.org.za on or before July 31.
