​​‘A community full of art is one filled with culture. When the opportunity arose to provide a space for a local group of musicians and dancers, we stepped up. Art enhances our lives by inspiring us and reminds us that we’re all creative beings. We’re all connected whether we’re dancing, making music or telling stories,’ said the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Safety and Security; and Social Services, Alderman JP Smith. The refurbishment project started in 2016 and includes upgrades of the kitchen, bathrooms and work spaces. New flooring, doors, ceilings, fencing and paving have been installed, as well as a universal access ramp. The facility has also received a fresh coat of paint.​

Below: The old Delft office

The space is occupied by the Rainbow Arts Organisation (RAO) which was established in 2006 by 10 concerned young artists. The aim was to give its members the opportunity to use the arts as a vehicle to develop alternative options for the youth.

From left to right: Buntu Jobela; Nkosikho Juqu; Philani Xhaga; ​Sinoxolo Njilo​

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​Since then, more than 50 young people and scholars living in Delft have directly benefitted from the programme.

Facing the challenges of poverty, school dropout rates and unemployment, RAO’s vision is to help overcome these challenges through the arts. The facility includes training in multimedia and puppetry skills, theatre, drama, dance, music and poetry.

Rainbow Arts Marimba Band
From left to right: Onela Ngqinambi; Zinzi Mtshakaza; Khanyiso Sotyato; Zama Qambi (back) ​​

The organisation focuses on inspiring and encouraging the youth to address issues of crime, abuse, poverty, HIV/AIDS and unemployment while trying to create economically independent citizens.​

The City has assisted RAO in registering as an NPO in addition to providing the organisation with opportunities to take part in arts and culture programmes, emerging artists exhibitions, and training in capacity building and programming.

Below: Zinzi Mtshakaza​

‘Music and dance brings people together. It can provoke, challenge and stimulate creativity, comfort and bring people together. In a community where young people often have several challenges, providing this space as an outlet and catalyst for creativity is ideal,’ said Alderman Smith.

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