Voices of Change — Highlights from The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5FM

 Voices of Change — Highlights from The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5FM

This morning, The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5FM featured three inspiring guests who are shaping their communities through creativity, sport, and service. From table tennis courts to art workshops and grassroots food drives, we heard how individuals are turning everyday spaces into powerful platforms for change  especially for the youth of Mitchell’s Plain and beyond.

 🏓 Craig Zimri – Building Champions Through Table Tennis

 Mitchell’s Plain Royals Table Tennis Club

Tuesday in studio we had Craig Zimri, is the head coach of the Mitchell’s Plain Royals Table Tennis Club. In a community where football and rugby often steal the spotlight, his club is giving kids a different kind of opportunity  one rooted in discipline, focus, and joy.

The club recently took part in the Cape Town Junior Table Tennis League, with several young players making their official competition debut. But as Craig shared, the true victories aren’t measured in trophies:

• It’s the self-confidence gained
• The discipline learned
• The teamwork developed

Training sessions are held every Tuesday and Thursday at the Woodlands Community Centre, offering structure and support for kids eager to grow both as athletes and as individuals. Despite limited resources, the passion is strong  and Craig encouraged local businesses and residents to support the club however they can.

📞 Contact: 062 977 3429

 

🎨 Wendy Abrahams – Wooden Wonders and Youth Empowerment

Advance Edukos Foundation – Woodwork Art Exhibition

Next, we spoke with Wendy Abrahams, Director of the Advance Edukos Foundation, about their recent Wooden Wonders exhibition held at the Rocklands Civic Centre. The event showcased beautifully handmade and painted wooden key holders and key rings all created by learners in their after-school arts programme.

What made this initiative especially meaningful? The children didn’t just make art they sold their pieces and kept the profits. For many of them, it was their first taste of entrepreneurship, and the pride and independence it sparked were clear.

This term, the Foundation introduced woodwork as a new creative medium, and next up is needlework part of Wendy’s mission to revive practical, hands-on skills that teach patience, creativity, and problem-solving. She also emphasized the emotional and mental health benefits of creative expression for young people.

📞 Contact: 078 141 3183
📲 Follow on social media: Advance Edukos Foundation

  

 🍽️ Fatima Majal-Murison – Feeding More Than Just People

Tanwir Learning Centre – Community Support in Action

We ended the show with a deeply moving conversation with Fatima Majal-Murison, founder of the Tanwir Learning Centre. Since 2019, without government funding, Fatima and her team have been providing essential support to families in Tafelsig, Heinz Park, and surrounding areas.

Their motto says it all:

"We don’t just feed people. We feed hope."

From food drives and youth camps to senior citizen pampering days and disability care, Tanwir is creating a web of support that meets not just physical needs, but emotional and social ones too. Fatima spoke about the power of community, the importance of volunteerism, and how small actions  a meal, a kind word, a donated item  can have a lasting impact.

📲 To get involved or support: Follow Tanwir Learning Centre on social media

 

A Morning of Local Impact

Each guest this morning reminded us that real change doesn’t always start in big places  it starts in community centres, school halls, kitchens, and backyards. Whether through sport, art, or compassion, these local leaders are giving young people tools to succeed  and a reason to believe in themselves.

Bush Radio will continue to amplify these powerful stories on The Morning Cruise, where every voice matters.

🎧 Stay tuned to Bush Radio 89.5FM, the station that speaks your language and speaks up for your community.

 Writing by Eliya

Presentor: Eliya, Laure, Emmanuelle, Ida

Breaking Barriers with Beats: Khulile Moyake’s “Ndiwavulile Amehlo” and the Rise of Conscious Hip-Hop

Breaking Barriers with Beats: Khulile Moyake’s “Ndiwavulile Amehlo” and the Rise of Conscious Hip-Hop

Meet Qubinematic: The Authentic Hip-Hop Voice Bringing Hope

Today, we invite you to discover an artist who is shaking up the South African hip-hop scene with raw authenticity and a new energy. Qubinematic, whose real name is khulile moyake, sat down with us for an early morning interview to introduce his new EP, intriguingly titled Ndiwavulile Amehlo. Through his words, he shares his journey, inspirations, and the passion that drives every one of his tracks. Dive into the world of a conscious artist determined to make music a vehicle for hope.

A Journey Forged by Passion and Perseverance

From the very start of the interview, Qubinematic comes across as humble and sincere. Hailing from Madawai, he recalls how music has always been a part of his life, long before he began writing his own lyrics in 2011. He reminisces about his early days, surrounded by friends, making music and improvising lyrics. It didn’t take long for him to realize that music was more than just a hobby-it was his calling.

“There was something inside me, unexplainable, that pushed me to write.”

Qubinematic channels this inner force into powerful lyrics, rhythms, and messages.

                                          

An EP Born from Authenticity and Real-Life Experience

His new EP, Ndiwavulile Amehlo, is more than just a collection of songs. It’s a deeply personal project, born from his experiences and beliefs. Qubinematic identifies as a “conscious” artist-a choice that hasn’t always been understood by those around him.

“As a conscious artist, I’ve often faced criticism. But I want my music to teach, to give hope to those who listen.”

Each song on the EP carries this intention: to teach, to unite, and above all, to offer a glimmer of hope to those going through tough times.

Overcoming Challenges with Creativity

Creating this EP wasn’t without its obstacles. Qubinematic shares how he had to learn to record, mix, and master his own tracks due to a lack of budget. What started as a constraint became a powerful opportunity for personal growth.

“Now, I can do everything myself. I gained valuable skills by producing this EP with no resources.”

His journey is an inspiration to anyone dreaming of making music but hesitating because of limited means.

Music to Unite and Inspire

When asked about his motivation, Qubinematic is clear: he wants to use music as a tool to bring people together and offer hope, especially to those struggling with depression.

“My dream is for my music to touch people, to bring something positive into their lives.”

His fast-paced, impactful style is inspired by artists like Sjava and M2, but he maintains a unique identity shaped by his own life and worldview.

A Message to Young Artists

Before wrapping up, Qubinematic shares some valuable advice for aspiring musicians:

“Make sure you have the passion, talent, and determination to persevere. Make music, but also keep a balance with your studies or another activity. Let passion guide your steps.”

Qubinematic reminds us that hip-hop is more than just a genre-it’s a means of expression, resilience, and sharing. His journey, marked by challenges overcome with courage, inspires us to believe in the power of authenticity. Don’t miss his new EP and let yourself be carried away by the strength of his message.

Where to Listen to Qubinematic

To follow the artist and explore his world, it’s easy:

Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (Twitter): @Qubinematic

YouTube: Creative Moment or Qubinematic

Feel free to contact him directly to get the EP or to connect. Qubinematic values direct interaction with his fans-a refreshingly authentic approach, just like his music.

Have you listened to Qubinematic’s new EP? Share your thoughts in the comments and follow us for more musical discoveries!

Writing by Laure 

From Wolseley to the World: The Raw, Resonant Voice of Victor Fredericks

When Victor Fredericks speaks, you don’t just hear a voice - you hear a legacy. A poet, musician, and storyteller hailing from the small South African town of Wolseley, Victor is proof that powerful artistry can grow from even the humblest of roots. In a recent interview on 89.5 FM’s The Morning Cruise, Victor opened up about his creative journey, his family’s deep influence, and how programs like Agri’s Got Talent and ATKV-Crescendo helped shape the voice we hear today.

 

 

Victor’s love for storytelling began with poetry. “Way back in the days,” as he puts it, he penned his first poetry bundle Afrikaans in 2001, later moving into short stories and collaborative books—including one co-authored with his father before his passing. That personal history runs like a current through Victor’s music, much of which he describes as “raw and honest” - a reflection of lived experiences and deep emotional truths.

The role of family in Victor’s journey is undeniable. His mother sang soprano in the church choir, and his father was an avid Afrikaans radio listener. They were his earliest supporters, even rising before dawn to help him catch a train to a performance. “They were there all the way,” he recalls, with heartfelt gratitude.

Language and identity are central themes in Victor’s work. Afrikaans isn’t just a medium for him, it’s the very fabric of his upbringing. “We dream in Afrikaans,” he says. While the language carries historical baggage, Victor is part of a new generation using it as a tool for storytelling, pride, and connection, especially within the Coloured community. “Afrikaans is not a second or third language where I come from. It’s the language.”

His artistry spans poetry, music, and theatre. One turning point came when respected poet Dr. Diana Ferris encouraged him to set her poetry to music. That leap—blending spoken word with melody—opened a whole new dimension of creative expression.

Victor’s latest single, Blackberry Juice and Gin, was born from the ATKV-Crescendo mentorship program, which he credits with helping him find his unique sound. “Back in the days, I used to write this ordinary Afrikaans,” he explains. “Now they showed me different genres.” Guided by producers and mentors like Eddie String and Morné Graster, Victor found both growth and community within the program.

As he gears up to launch his new single on May 16th at the Summerhill Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, Victor is excited to share the stage with fellow artists from the Crescendo program, including Yolanda Vahner and Ricku Lahti. Tickets are available via Quicket or the ATKV website.

For fans wanting to follow his journey, Victor is active on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok under his full name. His final message to listeners? A rallying cry for resilience and self-belief: “If you’ve got a dream, follow it. Make sure you’re on a positive path so you can become the person you were meant to be.”

Victor Fredericks isn’t just keeping Afrikaans music alive, he’s reshaping it, one honest lyric at a time.

 

 Written by Ryan Growney

Presenters: Mkhuseli “Khusi” Veto

Restoring Dignity, Protecting Futures: An Interview with Patric Solomons from Molo Songololo

At the heart of Cape Town, Molo Songololo stands as a beacon of hope and resilience for children and youth affected by abuse, exploitation, and poverty. For over 46 years, this non-profit organisation has worked to create a world where children are protected, empowered, and free to grow into their full potential. We sat down with Patric Solomons, one of the organisation’s leading voices, to learn more about their child protection programmes, youth empowerment work, and the powerful advocacy campaign Dignity for Girls.

“Molo Songololo works with children who have experienced trauma, often from sexual violence, exploitation, or trafficking,” Patric explains. “We offer psychosocial support, therapeutic interventions, and practical help—whether that’s counseling, legal referrals, or simply ensuring a child has food and is able to go back to school.”

Their work is holistic. Molo Songololo doesn’t just respond to crises—they accompany children through the entire healing journey. Outreach is often done directly in children’s homes, allowing staff to build trust and better understand the child’s environment. This approach ensures that children’s needs—emotional, educational, social—are addressed comprehensively, with dignity and care.

One of Molo Songololo’s key advocacy efforts is the Dignity for Girls campaign, which addresses the lack of access to sanitary products for girls and young women in impoverished communities.

“Menstruation is a natural, healthy part of life,” says Patric. “But in many communities, girls can’t afford sanitary pads or basic hygiene products. This affects their confidence, their attendance at school, and their sense of dignity.”

Through this campaign, the organisation provides not just sanitary pads but also essentials like deodorant, body wash, and shampoo—items many take for granted, but that are crucial to a teenager’s self-esteem. The campaign also challenges the stigma and shame often associated with menstruation, pushing for a world in which no girl feels bullied, excluded, or embarrassed for having a period.

When asked about the future, Patric is clear-eyed but hopeful. “We want to see a world where every child is safe, protected, and free to learn and dream,” he says. “That means access to quality education, proper nutrition, birth certificates and ID documents, and above all—justice.”

Molo Songololo envisions a future where community-based solutions are strengthened, where local food systems and education infrastructures are resilient, and where every child, regardless of background, can thrive.

The work of Molo Songololo is community-driven and donation-supported. The Dignity for Girls campaign relies on the generosity of the public to continue providing basic but essential hygiene products. Donations of sanitary pads, toiletries, or funds are always welcome.

Michelle Bergh from Rape Crisis Cape Town Trust

Today on Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5FM, we focussed on an issue that affects too many lives, yet is too often met with silence: sexual violence. We were joined by Michelle Bergh, a counsellor and training coordinator at Rape Crisis Cape Town Trust — an organization that has been standing with survivors for nearly 50 years.

Founded in 1976, Rape Crisis has become a pillar of support for survivors of sexual violence across Cape Town, with offices in Observatory, Khayelitsha, and Athlone. Their work includes counselling, legal advocacy, education programs, and community outreach — all grounded in a feminist, survivor-centered approach.

Michelle explained the layered nature of the trauma that survivors experience. Beyond the initial violence, survivors often face secondary victimization — subtle or overt forms of blame and judgment from family, police, doctors, or even friends. Phrases like "Why were you there?" or "What were you wearing?" continue to circulate in our communities, doing deep harm. Rape Crisis works to educate the public and dismantle these harmful myths, reminding us all that rape is not about sex — it’s about power and control, deeply rooted in systemic patriarchy.

One of the most impactful parts of the interview came when Michelle discussed why many survivors do not report their assault. In South Africa, navigating the legal system can be traumatizing in itself. From insensitive questioning at police stations to the daunting experience of forensic examinations, many survivors choose not to report — and that choice, Michelle reminded us, must be respected. “We support the survivor in whatever journey they choose to take,” she said.

Rape Crisis also runs important education programs such as Birds and the Bees, which brings conversations about consent and healthy relationships into schools. According to Michelle, the youth are incredibly receptive. "I'm constantly so impressed with our young people,” she said. These sessions provide safe spaces for learners to question norms and engage critically with issues around gender, power, and respect.

Finally, we spoke about the emotional toll of this work. Michelle acknowledged that supporting survivors can be heavy, but thanks to a strong internal support structure and a deeply committed volunteer base, the team at Rape Crisis remains resilient. “It can be tough,” she said, “but it's also incredibly rewarding.”

This conversation reminded us of how vital this work is — and how much we all have a role to play. Whether it’s challenging victim-blaming language, volunteering, donating, or simply educating ourselves and others, we can each contribute to a society where survivors are believed, supported, and empowered.

To learn more about the services provided by Rape Crisis Cape Town Trust, or to access help, you can visit their Website or reach out through their helpline or WhatsApp support.

Let’s keep the conversation going. Let’s break the silence. Let’s stand with survivors.

Navigating Feelings Like Notifications: A Conversation with Gregan Opperman

This morning on The Morning Cruise, we took a step back from the noise of everyday life to dive into something deeply human - our emotions. And guiding us through that journey was none other than Gregan Opperman, a South African native from the town of Ceres, who recently released a soul-stirring book titled The Notification of Emotion.

From the moment Gregan joined us in studio, it was clear we were in for more than just a book promo. Warm, vibrant, and full of stories from across the globe, Gregan brought a refreshing, down-to-earth perspective on mental health, self-awareness, and the emotional intelligence that threads it all together.

Emotions as Notifications, Not Commands

At the heart of Gregan’s book is a simple but powerful metaphor: emotions are like phone notifications. They don’t control us - they just inform us. “It’s a notification, not a command,” he said, pointing out that when someone throws an insult or life throws a curveball, we don’t need to react on autopilot. We can pause. We can choose. And in that choice lies our power.

From Ceres to the Sea, and Everywhere in Between

Gregan’s journey has taken him far beyond the borders of his hometown. From working at Capitec to sailing the seas on yachts and cruise ships, and even teaching English in Italy, his life reads like a travel memoir mixed with a self-help guide. He’s been to at least 14 countries - including Malta, which he calls a personal favorite - and it’s this exposure to diverse people and perspectives that’s helped shape the emotional depth of his writing.

One of his most pivotal moments came not from a luxury experience, but from a conversation with a monk who had left behind wealth in pursuit of inner peace. That moment sparked a realization: financial success is a tool, not a source of value. “Your emotional intelligence, your ability to inspire - that’s where your real worth lies,” Gregan shared.

The Power of Emotional Intelligence

Gregan’s fascination with emotions started early - at 14, thanks to a probing question from his older brother about emotional intelligence. That seed grew through journaling, conversations with strangers around the world, and moments of reflection during life’s highs and lows.

In one of the book’s chapters, he draws on the ancient symbol of yin and yang to illustrate the balance between joy and struggle. “There’s beauty in the struggle and ugliness in success,” he said, echoing lyrics from J. Cole. That contrast, he believes, is what makes us human - and what makes our emotional awareness so vital.

The Highest Human Act: To Inspire

What sets The Notification of Emotion apart isn’t just its philosophical musings or practical wisdom - it’s Gregan’s insistence that inspiration is the greatest gift we can give each other. “The highest act of humanity is to inspire,” he told us, quoting everyone from Tupac to Shakespeare. Whether you’re in the Cape Flats or halfway around the world, inspiration, he argues, is what sparks change - one person at a time.

And no, Gregan isn’t saying abandon material success. “Make your money,” he laughed, “but don’t be a slave to it.” True poverty, he reminded us, is having nothing but wealth.

A Book for a Scrolling Generation

With attention spans shrinking and screens pulling us in, Gregan admits that writing a book in today’s world is a bold move. But he sees The Notification of Emotion as more than just pages - it’s a modern-day meditation. “When we feel too much, we dive into our phones,” he observed. “But what if, instead, we dove into ourselves?”

A Final Word

As the interview wrapped up, we asked Gregan what he’d say to someone struggling—whether financially, emotionally, or just with the weight of the world. His reply was simple and profound: “Every day above ground is a blessing. And the biggest blessing of life… is life itself.”

You can find The Notification of Emotion on Amazon, Apple Books, Barnes & Noble, Smashwords, and just about anywhere you get your reads.

Written by Ryan Growney

Presenters: Ryan Growney, Mkhuseli “Khusi” Veto, Camille De Vos

Pangea: A Celebration of Unity, Culture, and Creativity at the Joseph Stone Auditorium

On May 15th from 7 to 9 p.m., the Joseph Stone Auditorium in Athlone, Cape Town will come alive with Pangea, a one-night-only showcase of global talent and cultural collaboration presented by the Eoan Group. Born from the energy and vision of young interns Tyra and Nojus, Pangea is more than just a performance: it’s a powerful reflection on what’s possible when borders dissolve and creativity takes center stage.

I had the pleasure of welcoming Tyra and Nojus back to The Morning Cruise on Bush Radio to talk about this ambitious and heartwarming project. Both are currently working as interns through the Take Action Lab program, which brings together students from over 30 countries to gain hands-on experience at nonprofits across Cape Town.

So, why the name Pangea?

Tyra explained: “The name Pangea came about because there was this supercontinent with a bunch of different lands that eventually split apart. So imagine if all these different lands, all these different cultures were able to reunite, sort of like a reformation of Pangea itself. That’s what we’re going for: collaboration, unity, and a global sphere of performers.”

What makes this event especially poignant is that it’s being organized by the very interns and apprentices who've spent the past few months immersed in Cape Town’s arts and nonprofit spaces. For Nojus, who hails from Lithuania, the experience of teaching a traditional Lithuanian dance to his peers was particularly powerful: “Usually people have not heard about my country at all... and then there’s music screaming through the whole building and people dancing the dances I learned 10 or 15 years ago. That’s the beauty of culture - it’s so different, but also the same.”

Held at the historic Joseph Stone Auditorium, a 500-seat venue known for its deep community roots, Pangea is designed to be a true meeting place of stories, rhythms, and people. “The Joseph Stone isn’t just a venue,” Tyra said. “It’s a space that gives a platform for people from all sorts of backgrounds... every part of it comes with an energetic hug.”

From behind-the-scenes coordination to lighting design and stage management, the young organizers are handling it all. And while the logistical challenges are real, the commitment and enthusiasm from their cohort have been overwhelming. “The most exciting part,” Tyra shared, “is seeing people show up and show out... Everyone is so talented and we’re finally creating a space where that talent can be seen and shared.”

So what should the audience expect? Neither Tyra nor Nojus could pick a single act they were most excited for, because “everything is exciting!” as Nojus exclaimed, although hey agreed the real magic would be in the audience’s reaction. “I think the stage gives people the power to speak not into the void, but into the hearts of people who’ve never encountered them before,” Tyra said. “I’m excited to see how that transforms the audience.”

And when the final bow happens and the curtain falls? “We want people to leave remembering that lines on the map don’t separate us,” said Tyra. “If we focus on unity, compassion, community, and love - there’s nothing we can’t do.”

Pangea is a free event, but seats are limited, and they’re going fast. You can follow the Eoan Group on Instagram and TikTok for updates and sneak peeks.

Don’t miss this one! Pangea isn’t just a show, it’s a living, breathing testament to what happens when young people come together across cultures to create something meaningful.

Written by Ryan Growney

Presenters:  Mkulesi “Khusi” Veto, Ryan Growney, and Camille De Vos

Getting Real with Samantha Carlisle: On her new solo show, Messy

Monday morning on Morning Cruise on Bush Radio 89.5FM, we had the absolute pleasure of welcoming Samantha Carlisle—writer, sexworker, performer, and all-round force of nature—to talk about her bold new solo show Messy, premiering May 6 and 7 at Theatre Arts in Observatory.

Directed by feminist theatre powerhouse Dara Beth, Messy traces the tangled web of Carlyle’s past romantic encounters—“although perhaps lovers is too generous a word,” she laughs. At its core, the play is a deeply personal chronicle of how her relationship with love, intimacy, and sex has evolved from teenage years to adulthood.

Born and raised in Makhanda in the Eastern Cape, Carlyle grew up steeped in South African independent theatre. Regular visits to the National Arts Festival from a young age left a lasting impact: “I sort of grew up watching some amazing independent South African theatre and a lot of stand-up comedy,” she says. That comedic influence is clearly present in Messy, where she fuses the raw confessional tone of stand-up with theatrical storytelling.

Although she always knew she wanted to be a performer, it wasn’t until meeting Dara Beth and joining the non-profit organisation Hokaei Loll that she began to take her writing seriously. Carlyle is also a part of Spark in the Dark, a theatre production company that provided the first spark for Messy. After reading a funny story about losing her virginity at one of their Play Things events and receiving roaring laughter and encouragement, she realised the potential for something bigger.

“I just thought, okay, let me see if I can weave these stories together into something enjoyable for everyone,” she explains. The result is a tightly woven, often hilarious piece of theatre that doesn’t shy away from the uncomfortable.

A central thread of Messy is Carlyle’s experience as an online sex worker. “I actually have an OnlyFans account,” she shares openly, while noting that she’s careful not to generalize or glamourize the industry. “It is a very difficult job, and it comes with a lot of violence and hatred—as well as joy and humour.” Through her own lens, she offers an unflinching, nuanced take on a line of work still largely stigmatized in South Africa.

She also tackles internalized misogyny—sometimes with biting satire, like in the portrayal of an old Afrikaans teacher who becomes the embodiment of internalized sexism. “Start unlearning it,” she urges. “Give yourself more grace.” She’s candid about her own struggles: “Even today, I find something pops in my head and I go, ‘Oh no, that’s awful, don’t think that.’

But writing and performing a solo show is no small feat. “It’s terrifying,” she admits. “It’s like giving birth.” The vulnerability of sharing such intimate stories on stage has been one of the biggest challenges—but it’s one she’s met with the support of her director and collaborators. “Dara Beth brings such a sharp eye to performance, but also so much empathy. They’re incredibly devoted—not just to the craft, but to making sure the performer isn’t retraumatized.”

With her biting wit and open-hearted storytelling, Samantha Carlyle is a fresh and fearless voice in South African theatre. And if Messy is any indication, she’s just getting started.

Catch Messy at Theatre Arts in Observatory on 6 & 7 May. Tickets and info via theatrearts.co.za. Trust us—you don’t want to miss this one.

Presenters: Khusi, Camille & Ryan
Written by Camille De Vos

The Cookie Monster lit up Morning Cruise today! 🕺🍪🎶

 A big thank you to DJ The Cookie Monster for joining us on The Morning Cruise this morning with an amazing mix! 

This morning on Morning Cruise, we had a special guest in the studio: DJ The Cookie Monster, also known as Tawfeeq Cook. This rising star from Cape Town is making waves with his fresh sound, mixing Amapiano, 3Step, Gqom, and House music. His set brought a burst of energy to the studio and got us all hyped for the weekend.

The Cookie Monster started DJing at a young age, inspired by friends and people in his community. He taught himself the craft and has been growing ever since. So far, he’s only played in Cape Town, but he's ready to take his music beyond the city.

Want to catch him live? Don’t miss his set tomorrow (May 3rd) at Paradise Rooftop, located at 9 Albertus Street, Zonnebloem. Expect serious vibes and a dancefloor that won’t quit.

📲 Follow him on Instagram and TikTok: @TheCookie__Monster
📞 For bookings: 081 739 9001

Support local talent and remember: the best cookies come with beats! 

Discovering the EOAN Group: When Art Becomes a Space of Freedom in Athlone

Nestled in the heart of the Joseph Stone Auditorium in Athlone, the EOAN Group stands out as a true gem of the South African arts scene. More than just a dance and theater collective, EOAN Group is a vibrant community where art, education, and inclusion come together to offer a unique space for young people and families in the neighborhood.

As soon as you step through the doors of the Joseph Stone Auditorium, you’re struck by the scale of the place: a 500-seat auditorium, several dance studios, welcoming communal spaces… and above all, an atmosphere buzzing with creative energy. “It’s an impressive building, designed to welcome both artists and visitors,” say Tyra and No Use, two group members interviewed recently. The theater, one of the few “fly-in theaters” in Cape Town, is so popular that you sometimes have to book a year in advance to organize an event there.

What truly sets EOAN Group apart is its philosophy: “We live to serve.” For nearly a century, the organization has made it its mission to make art accessible to everyone, regardless of background or personal journey. “Here, there’s no judgment. Everyone can come as they are, find their place, and express themselves freely,” explains Tyra. This openness is felt in the smallest details, like the always-open door of Mr. Shafik’s office, one of the supervisors, who is ready to welcome and advise children at any time.

One of EOAN Group’s unique features is its integrated academic center. A few students follow an international online curriculum every day, supported by the on-site team. After classes, it’s time for dance! “They spend a lot of time at the auditorium, but you never hear them complain. It’s like a family,” says No Use. This hybrid approach allows young people to thrive both artistically and academically, without having to choose between the two.

From contemporary to hip-hop, Indonesian dance, classical ballet, or belly dancing, the range of classes is as eclectic as the participants themselves. Children can start as young as three, and some members remain loyal to the group for decades. “One of our supervisors started here at three years old, and she’s now over thirty,” says Tyra, proof of the community’s strength and loyalty.

Being part of the EOAN Group also means discovering what happens behind the curtain: managing costumes, organizing logistics for shows, welcoming the public… “You don’t realize everything that has to be done to make it all look so smooth on the day,” laughs No Use. But beyond the work, it’s the contagious energy of the leaders and the passion of the artists that leave the biggest impression.

For many, EOAN Group is much more than an arts center: it’s a space for freedom, connection, and empowerment. “The word that comes up most often is ‘freedom’,” summarizes Tyra. Freedom to be oneself, to express oneself, to grow surrounded by a caring community. This unique alchemy makes EOAN Group a pillar of Athlone and a beacon of hope for future generations.

                         

With regular shows, constant buzz, and openness to all talents, EOAN Group continues to write its story, driven by the passion and commitment of its members. If you’re looking for a place where art means inclusion, family, and freedom, look no further: the Joseph Stone Auditorium is waiting for you.

Writing by Laure 

Raising Leaders, One Child at a Time: Inside Ubuntu Charity

At the heart of the Imizamo Yethu community in Cape Town, Ubuntu Charity has been quietly transforming lives for over six years. Founded by Silke Rylands, a German-born changemaker with a deep sense of justice and empathy, the organization is proof of how compassion, consistency, and community involvement can create lasting impact.

We had the chance to speak with Silke on The Morning Cruise to learn more about Ubuntu Charity’s beginnings, their impressive range of projects, and the inspiring young people who are now stepping into leadership roles within their own neighborhoods.

Silke first came to South Africa for work, but it was love—and a strong desire to give back—that anchored her here. “Coming from Germany, where poverty is not as visible, the contrast really struck me,” she explained. “I felt I had to do something.”

Her journey began humbly, in the backyard of an elderly woman in Imizamo Yethu named Mama Miriam. Together, they started a soup kitchen, with Silke preparing meals in her own home and delivering them in the back of a bakkie. What began as one act of kindness has since grown into a multi-faceted organization.

Today, Ubuntu Charity runs tuition programs, a soup kitchen, a community library, recycling initiatives, and even supports local entrepreneurs and small businesses. “Organizationally, it’s mostly just me,” Silke shared, laughing. From fundraising and administration to stock purchasing and lesson planning, she wears many hats—but never loses sight of Ubuntu’s mission.

Education has become the cornerstone of the organization’s work. “Education is the key,” she emphasized. “It’s not just about academics; it’s about creating a safe space, teaching values, and giving kids a vision for the future.”

Ubuntu Charity is not just helping children—it’s turning them into helpers. Kids who once benefitted from the program are now giving back. Silke proudly shared stories of 13-year-old Owen Balasana and 12-year-old Simon Vidkus, both of whom are involved in community projects like the soup kitchen and recycling initiatives. “It’s amazing to see how they’ve grown, both personally and academically,” Silke said.

The children in the program are learning far more than math and science. Through sports, yoga, drug prevention workshops, and guest-led creative sessions, they’re developing life skills, confidence, and a sense of responsibility toward their community. “It boosts their self-esteem and shows them that they matter, that they can make a difference.”

Silke admits that gaining the community’s trust took time. “At first, people were skeptical. They’d seen people come and go—taking photos and disappearing.” But her unwavering presence—rain or shine—won them over. “When they saw I was consistent, they started stepping in to help.”

Though most of the organization’s funding comes from Germany, Silke is now focused on a long-term goal: building a dedicated community center. After three and a half years, Ubuntu finally secured a piece of land. Now, they’re working hard to raise the funds needed to bring the vision to life.

Whether you’re in Cape Town or abroad, there are plenty of ways to support Ubuntu Charity—from volunteering with the children on Fridays, to helping out with outings or behind-the-scenes administration. “Even just offering a new activity or hobby for the kids on a Friday makes a big difference,” Silke said.

Ubuntu may have started as a simple act of service, but under Silke’s leadership, it has become a beacon of community-driven change. The message is clear: when children are given the tools and trust to lead, they can—and will—change the world.

Building Futures from the Ground Up: A Conversation with Tracy Fortune from ELRU

This morning on Morning Cruise, we were honored to speak with Tracy Fortune, the passionate and dedicated CEO of the Early Learning Resource Unit (Elru). With over 50 years of experience supporting early childhood development (ECD) in South Africa, Elru con

tinues to be a vital force in transforming young lives—especially in under-resourced communities like Gugulethu, Nyanga, and Crossroads.

From the very beginning of our conversation, Tracy’s love for children and unwavering belief in the power of early learning were crystal clear. “If we don’t get the foundation right,” she explained, “we will continue to see the long-term impact: high dropout rates, poor literacy, and a generation of youth unable to thrive.”

Tracy stressed that the first seven years of a child’s life are critical—not just for individual development, but for society at large. With 80% of South African Grade 4 learners unable to read for meaning, and nearly 50% dropping out before completing school, the stakes are high. Early learning programs don’t just prepare children for school—they combat long-term issues like poverty, violence, and unemployment.

“You can’t fix the economy if you don’t fix early childhood development,” Tracy quoted economist Paul Romer. Her message was clear: ECD isn’t charity—it’s nation-building.

One of the key ways Elru supports this vision is through its Centre Support Programme (CSP). This initiative helps ECD centres become safe, sustainable spaces where quality learning can happen. Elru offers everything from infrastructure upgrades to training for practitioners and assistance with health and safety compliance.

In areas where many caregivers are unqualified and centres lack basic resources, Elru steps in with hands-on support. They also guide centres through the process of becoming registered, which allows them to access government subsidies—crucial funding that can mean the difference between survival and closure.

Despite the obvious importance of ECD, Tracy explained that funding remains one of the sector’s biggest challenges. Many centres struggle just to stay open, let alone grow or innovate. “We need more people to understand that early childhood development is the key to solving many of our country's most pressing problems,” Tracy urged.

To help close this gap, Elru is hosting a fundraising event at the Baxter Theatre on June 8th—a night filled with performance and purpose. Proceeds will go directly toward sustaining and expanding Elru’s work in vulnerable communities.

Listeners who want to support Elru can do so in many ways. Donations—whether financial or in-kind—are always welcome. Educational toys, nutritious food, and learning materials make a real difference in children’s daily lives. You can also volunteer, spread awareness, or attend their upcoming event.

For more information or to get involved, contact Elru at 021 762 7500.

Written by Camille De Vos

Presenters: Khusi, Ryan & Camille