There are creative ways to ensure youths stay focused, have fun, and be inspired to great things in life; in Africa, dance is one of those ways, that Jibilika Trust brings to local communities in Botswana, and other African countries.
They are a worthy corporate social investment for companies in Botswana, as they take various life messages that help youths not only cope, but conquer the daily challenges of growing up in modern Botswana.
On July 6th, 2019, Jibilika Trust Botswana starts auditions in Francistown for its debut Jibilika Festival planned for August 2019; a dance festival for youths.
Jibilika Trust is a youth-led creative social enterprise committed to mobilising and engaging young people in positive social actions through youth culture. The organisation offers creative opportunities and equips adolescents in and out of school with the skills, knowledge and tools necessary to become social development agents and successful citizens.
In Zimbabwe, Jibilika Trust is funded by various local and international organisations who partner with them for events and projects. These organisations include Culture Fund Zimbabwe, PEPFAR of the US Embassy in Harare, and other corporate organisations as well.
The organisation’s projects offer young people the opportunity to use their own art, media, communication styles and ideas to make a difference in their homes, schools and communities.
Jibilika Trust is also pioneering ‘step up’ an innovative approach to social issues such as HIV and this has earned the organisation a great reputation.
In an interview by The Southern Times, the founder, Plot Mhako noted that Jibilika Trust Gaborone will be working hand in hand with other arts organisations in Botswana such as Maitisong Festival 2018.
According to Mhako, plans to expand to the rest of the region will be determined by the response and results of the Botswana project.
The exchange experience is one of the most effective ways to promote social cohesion and creative development and to open up more opportunities for countries involved. We are hopeful that the Botswana project will bring positive results.”
Botswana youth participation in Jibilika festivals, programmes and projects will give them access to international stages like Germany, United States, Uganda, Kenya, South Africa, where in times past Plot Mhako and his team have travelled on tour with youths that would have performed well in local events.
