Teaching children what it means to express themselves through art, poetry and rapping is what Colour a Day Brighter, a non-profit organisation, strives for.
Colour a Day Brighter teaches children how to rap and write poetry. They also focus on creating self-sustenance, helping children express themselves and knowing who they are, said founder Lindsay Langeveldt, 30, from Portland.
“Sometimes children are afraid to express who they are, we just need to give them the tools to manage what is happening in their lives, and help them express that. It is important we create a personal space and protect them as it is personal for them,” said Ms Langeveldt.
On Wednesday April 24 the group that Colour a Day Brighter works with were taught how to write sensory poetry and the rap group focused on the song they created.
Carol Moyo, 11, from Philippi, said she has been with Colour a Day Brighter since March. She said Ms Langeveldt helps her and inspires her. “I experience bullying at school but this class helps me overcome this,” said Carol.
Laylah May, 10, from Lentegeur, said she wanted to know more about poems as she loves poetry. “I would like to be like Ms Langeveldt someday. I would also like to write my own poems.”
Jordan Otto, 10, from Lentegeur, had praise for Colour a Day Brighter, also known as Rosey.
“I rap mostly about school. Our group’s song is called Enter to Learn and Leave to Serve, which is also the school’s motto. I like Rosey’s style of teaching and rapping. YoungstaCPT is my favourite rapper,” said Jordan.
The organisation started in 2010. They would feed children in the community and with this they realised they need to also educate the children. This year, they are focusing on helping children in schools and have chosen to work with pupils from Merrydale Primary School.
Colour a Day Brighter is at Merrydale Primary every Wednesday from 2pm to 3pm. If you would like to get involved, call Ms Langeveldt on 065 322 9507.