Kwa-Thema – Khethukuthula and Hope Mhlanga hosted a fundraising art concert at Masimini Primary School on August 3.
They held the concert to raise college funds for Khethukuthula, who was accepted at a college in Johannesburg to study art in 2025.
”The art school offers unique undergraduate studies and opportunities alongside award-winning artists, educators and published academics.
“I aspire to be the greatest poet to ever come from Kwa-Thema. I am passionate about art, specifically poetry. I am determined to do everything I can to raise funds towards my studies after matric.
“I am a good poet and write my own poetry. I know how to put my thoughts on paper and resonate with others through words, and studying towards my passion is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” said Khethukuthula.
Khethukuthula said the concert is close to her heart because this is the best way she can try to raise funds for her registration fee and, hopefully, accommodation and travelling fees.
“I do not want to take a gap year next year. That is why I am pushing myself to do what I can to get the registration fee at least.
“I am also grateful for the support and courage I receive from my brother. He not only helped me with organising the event but provided the motivation for me to apply to college,” she said.
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Her brother, Hope, said he wants a successful life for his sister. He further mentioned that he has never met anyone so passionate about art more than his sister.
“I know we will raise the necessary funds because the fundraising art concert gained a lot of support from the public. People came in groups, individually, and siblings also came to support their brothers and sisters.
“Poets, performing artists, actors, actresses and dancers came and paid to show support for my sister’s dream. And for that, we are beyond grateful,” said Hope.
The concert had performances and activities, and one for the community members, Gloria Van Emmerik, a creative seamstress, gave a motivational talk on her experiences.
Van Emmerik (40) opened her motivational talk by introducing herself and explaining to the audience that she was not the sharpest pencil in school.
“I was not book smart but was very good with my hands.
“It still shocks me when I explain my story. I taught myself to speak English at age 30. It did not stop me from making something out of my life.
“Had someone told me I would be a seamstress one day, I would have laughed, but today, I stand here before you to tell you your dreams are valid. I am a living testimony.
“I have travelled to many countries through my work, like France and Spain,” she said.
Towards the end of her address, she motivated the audience to strive to become the best and continuously aim to better their work and themselves.
Khethukuthula and Hope plead with the Kwatsaduza communities to help with donations towards Khethukuthula’s studies next year.
For enquiries and contributions, call Khethukuthula on 076 549 8445.
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