Jikeleza "Turn Around" Dance Project

Jikeleza Dance Project is a community outreach and development project located in one of the most deprived township neighborhoods in Cape Town. In 2002, the project used creative community-based dance, music, and performance to champion the youth’s fight against the hardships they face within the informal settlements of Imizamo Yethu and Hangberg in Hout Bay. Jikeleza, which translates to “Turn Around” in isiXhosa, works as a community partner with Sentinel Intermediate Secondary School. The project addresses a wide range of social issues such as poverty, neglect, drugs, violence, HIV/AIDS, poor educational attainment, and unemployment. The project, run by a small team of inspirational teachers and carers, empowers each child to develop their unique skills with confidence and dignity. Through a wide range of activities, including creative movement, African drumming, marimba, and life orientation, Jikeleza positively affects the lives of impoverished and marginalized children and young people. Providing an innovative mix of life skills, nutrition, and economic support enables the community to participate in performances and develop skills that progress into creative careers.