SSM Music celebrates 13 years of empowering young people
There is a benefit gala dinner today, Thursday, March 23 and an arts festival on March 25, 2023.
By CityLife Arts Writer
SSM Music and Arts (NPO), founded by Simon Sfiso Msiza, is led by young and vibrant South Africans, who are passionate about the arts. Based on the premise that the collective moral regeneration of South Africa is a top priority, SSM Music and Arts (Structuring Society through Music & Arts) was formed 13 years ago. It has come to play a pivotal role in the movement to empower young people in SA through the arts. SSM is made up of three main centres – the SSM Music Centre, SSM Arts Centre and the SSM Ploughback Centre. Together, these aim to empower individuals and communities through arts education and community development initiatives.
Msiza shares that:
“SSM is committed to playing an active role and to being part of the solution by providing the youth, predominantly from the township and marginalized communities, with opportunities to participate in the arts, and make significant improvements to their livelihoods through the skills and expertise acquired from SSM. To date, we have made an impact on approximately 150 young people through our various programmes. We have also created 22 employment opportunities for young people in Mpumalanga and Gauteng within the last 5 years. SSM is starting to make a visible positive impact in the lives of young people through the arts.”
Two pivotal events will occur during March: the SSM Music and Arts Benefit Gala on Thursday, 23 March, will be held at the Soweto Theatre from 18:00 onwards. The aim is to raise funds to purchase musical instruments, a transportation vehicle and financial support to make their various youth-focussed projects a success.
The evening will comprise of orchestral performances, storytelling, auctions and networking over dinner and provides an opportunity for donors to contribute to an organization that looks at the broader social appeal and reach of the SA economy.
On Saturday 25 March, the FAITH ALIVE MUSIC & ARTS FESTIVAL will also be held at the Soweto Theatre in Jabulani. This provides young people with a platform to showcase their talent on various programmes. It also provides them with performance confidence and helps them develop a better understanding and appreciation of the arts outside of the classroom and practice room. The day runs from 12:00 – 19:00 and audiences can look forward to orchestras, live bands, choirs, ballet, poets and more. Tickets cost R150.