WORKSHOPS

SKILLS & DEVELOPMENT

CRITICAL THINKING

In an effort to uplift and empower children from impoverished communities who are often confronted with challenges such as poverty, exposure to gang violence, substance abuse, and inadequate access to quality educational resources, OCTH has implemented targeted initiatives to help children from disadvantaged communities including Mitchells Plain, Stellenbosch (Kayamandi), Primrose Park, & Eerste River. Harnessing the power of art, cultural heritage and critical thinking, the programmes seek to provide a supportive framework that enables children to navigate challenges by addressing the inequality and significant disparities faced by underprivileged children. The initiative recognizes that many young kids in the low-income environments are often vulnerable to negative influences that can hinder their development, and works towards enabling children to transcend the limitations imposed by their environments. Research shows that engagement in arts and cultural heritage correlates with enhanced academic performance and provides a sense of identity and belonging. The arts, cultural heritage and critical thinking become a vehicle for personal growth, enabling these young individuals to envision a future beyond the limitations imposed by their circumstances.

COMMUNITIES

Actively collaborating with marginalized artists, educators and communities ensures that the programmes are relevant and resonate with the community's values. The initiative builds a network of support that reinforces the positive messages conveyed through arts by engaging with educators and community members. This comprehensive approach addresses the immediate challenges faced by children in poverty-stricken areas and contributes to the long-term revitalization of the community. Ensuring that every child, regardless of their socioeconomic status, has the chance to thrive is a moral imperative and essential for the overall well-being and stability of our communities.

When we invest in the potential of every child, we lay the groundwork for a promising future, where all members of society can contribute meaningfully and thrive together!

ART WORKSHOP

The Art Workshop is designed to educate and engage children from these communities and schools, providing them with a unique opportunity to explore their cultural heritage through various artistic expressions while developing their critical thinking abilities and enranking their problem-solving skills. Led by experienced OCTH Art Facilitators, the workshop introduces participants to four distinct art mediums, allowing them to experiment with different techniques and materials. The four hour workshops nurtures creativity and fosters a deeper understanding of the participants' backgrounds and traditions, encouraging them to take pride in their heritage. As the kids develop their artistic skills and create their artworks, they are guided to reflect on their choices, the stories behind their creations, and the cultural significance of the themes they are exploring. This process encourages them to ask questions, analyze their surroundings, and articulate their thoughts, which are essential skills that extend beyond the realm of art. The facilitators create a supportive environment where children feel safe to express themselves and share their perspectives, promoting dialogue and collaboration among peers. Providing a space for children to explore their emotions, build resilience, and develop coping mechanisms that are essential for navigating the complexities of their environments. The workshop enriches their lives and equips them with valuable skills that can positively impact their futures by providing them with the means to express their identities and experiences. Through the combination of artistic expression, cultural exploration and critical thinking, participants leave the workshop with a greater sense of self-worth and a newfound appreciation for their artistic capabilities.

ART EXHIBITION

Selected artwork created by the kids participating in the Art Workshop will be featured in OCTH cultural heritage Art Exhibitions, displayed at the highly anticipated cultural event known as First Thursday, held in the Central Business District (CBD). The cultural event draws a wide-ranging audience, providing an excellent platform for the children's artwork to be shown to a diverse group of attendees. By participating in such a well-regarded cultural gathering, the children have the potential to attract more mentors and supporters who can play a pivotal role in nurturing their artistic talents. The increased visibility of their work amplifies recognition and serves as a catalyst for inspiration and motivation, creating an atmosphere that supports their growth and development. The encouragement they receive from this supportive community can significantly enhance their confidence and drive, ultimately propelling them toward greater achievements. The nonprofit's commitment to cultural heritage and the arts serves as a beacon of hope, inspiring the next generation to rise above adversity and pursue their dreams.

Recognition for Excellence

Upon concluding the workshop, the kids will be awarded three different certificates that recognize their newly acquired skills, serving as a testament to their hard work and dedication. This recognition serves as a powerful motivator, encouraging them to continue exploring their artistic talents and practice their new found skills, embracing new challenges in the future. Each child will receive an educational gift bag, thoughtfully curated to include a variety of materials designed to facilitate ongoing practice and learning, including a postcard size book encompassing cultural heritage and critical thinking. The gift bag reinforces the concepts covered during the workshop, ensuring that the children have the resources they need to continue their educational journey.

Ultimately, the programme encourages children to dream of a brighter future filled with possibilities. It opens their eyes to alternative paths they may not have previously considered, allowing them to envision lives rich with opportunities. Nurturing their aspirations and providing the necessary support, the programme aims to equip these young minds with the confidence and skills needed to navigate their journeys, ensuring they are prepared to face the challenges ahead with resilience and confidence.

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Participants are challenged to interpret artistic expressions, question assumptions, and engage in thoughtful discussions, ultimately enriching their cognitive abilities and cultural awareness, through art.

By engaging participants in creative activities, these workshops provide a unique opportunity to explore and appreciate diverse cultural backgrounds.