By Ray Schone | Project Leader
Dear Friend of YOUPSA,
The past few months have been filled with so many world-opening experiences for the YOUPSA children. Art is an essential element for mental and physical well-being and is a regular part of YOUPSA's programmes. Recently our childrens' artwork reached international audiences - as part of the 'I Have A Voice Arts Festival' exhibition in a gallery in Manhattan, New York, USA! Click I Have A Voice to view the exhibit online.
Thanks to your help we have been able to take the children on a number of outings to explore the wider world. Most rural children have never had the opportunity to leave their farm or village. Our adventures included a trip to an arts & crafts market, a marine boat tour, a day at the beach, eating at a restaurant, visiting the dams that supply the region with water, seeing wild animals at Amakhala Game Reserve, touring the African Musical Instruments factory and more.
In YOUPSA's weekly programme, the children have been enjoying reading books and discussing topics such as building relationships, self-belief and resilience. A very popular book with the children is 'Mayine' by South African author Nathan Adonis. After reading a book, our children like to express their experience through drawings.
The most important thing for children to unfold is to have space and freedom to express themselves. Making cardboard art was an exciting opportunity to experience just that!
YOUPSA is supporting two bright girls to attend better schools. We are extremely proud of them and love seeing them thrive in their new environment. They have been part of YOUPSA's programmes for some years, Jade Rynn is now attending Grade 6 and Philasande is attending Grade 10.
Our world is continuously opening! YOUPSA has just moved our operations to the De Rust area, Klein Karoo, Western Cape Province, 15 minutes east of Oudtshoorn. It is a farming community at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains. We will be working with the disadvantaged children of the farm laborers and unfolding new talents here, while continuing to support the children in the Gamtoos Valley.
Please continue to help us keep our children safe, stimulated, creative and learning.
With gratitude and warm regards from the YOUPSA Team!
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