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Our Programmes

Our Nonofisa programme

The Nonofisa ( meaning empowered or strengthened ) programme is the lead programme by the
Gaopalelwe Foundation. This programme aims to provide artistically gifted youth, aged 9 to 17 years, in underserved communities with art education, mentorship workshops, and holistic wellness programmes. Through the programme, the Foundation forms collaborations with schools and introduces after-school art activities for learners.
Art training is also provided to willing community volunteers who wish to teach arts under the Foundation.

The Nonofisa ( meaning empowered or strengthened ) programme is the lead programme by the
Gaopalelwe Foundation. This programme aims to provide artistically gifted youth, aged 9 to 17 years, in underserved communities with art education, mentorship workshops, and holistic wellness programmes. Through the programme, the Foundation forms collaborations with schools and introduces after-school art activities for learners. Art training is also provided to willing community volunteers who wish to teach arts under the Foundation.

The most significant way we can change how society views and treats the arts is through educating communities about the arts and its impact on our daily lives. We must shift the perception that artistically gifted children are less intelligent or bright. Our current educational system has not been built to cater to their unique talents, and that is where the true challenge lies.

What the programme offers

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Art Training

Mentorship Workshops

Holistic Health

Our Nêêla programme

The ’Nêêla’ ( meaning to equip ) programme seeks to provide artistically gifted youth, seeking to venture into the arts and entertainment industry, with business skills development and financial literacy, which are essential for their long-term success and sustainability in the field. Furthermore, it connects the youth with career guidance and mentorship from art-industry veterans.

What the programme offers

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Business Literacy

Career Guidance

Holistic Health

Let's strive to make a profound and transformative impact in the lives of our youth.

Art Training:

  • Comprehensive training in various art forms.
  • Access to art supplies and studios, to nurture creativity and develop skills.
  • Encourage students to attend theatre productions, visit art galleries, and purchase art pieces by South African artists
We believe that every single young boy and girl deserves an opportunity to explore their artistry in various degrees. Art education not only equips youth with the ability to express themselves in creative ways and connect emotionally with others, but it also develops their confidence, self-awareness, innovation, academic improvement, and social interaction skills. Furthermore, it teaches youth to appreciate and support the arts, which is vital for the art industry’s economic expansion.

It is imperative that we teach youth to appreciate and support the arts industry through attending theatre productions, visiting art galleries, and buying art pieces by South African artists. By instilling these habits, we aim to nurture artists who understand that their contribution to the arts is fundamental to sustaining our culture and creative industry. It is important that our students are taught to be consumers of art while training to be producers of art.

Mentorship Workshops:

  • Connecting youth with experienced professionals in the arts and entertainment industry.
  • Providing a platform for students to engage with role models, ask questions, and gain firsthand insights into the industry.
We recognise that the most effective way to influence a life is to expose it to “tangible example[s] of dreams realised” (Nomzamo Mbatha). Our mentorship workshops connect youth enrolled in the programmes with veterans in the arts and entertainment industry.

The goal is to provide students with opportunities to interact with individuals who represent what they dream to become. This platform allows them to ask questions and gain an in-depth, firsthand understanding of the industry and the people they look up to.

Holistic Health Awareness and Support:

  • Programmes focused on mental and physical well-being, including mindfulness practices, and physical fitness.
  • Programmes encouraging self-awareness, authenticity, and emotional intelligence.
  • Cultivating a community of artists who are grounded, resilient, and emotionally intelligent individuals.
No artist who can create and produce output without tuning into their inner being for inspiration and productivity. Artists need to be holistically well to function at their optimum level because living as an artist entails daring to live authentically and honestly. The best output by an artist comes when they are authentically honest about who they are and what they feel. It is in this way that they inspire another life to do the same.

We believe in nurturing the holistic well-being of our students, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive not only creatively but also emotionally, mentally, and physically. By fostering an environment of self-awareness, authenticity, and emotional intelligence, we empower our young artists to tap into their innermost selves for inspiration and creativity.

Business & Financial Literacy:

  • Workshops and courses on entrepreneurship, financial management, and marketing for artists.
  • Mentorship from industry professionals to guide youth in building sustainable careers.
Providing artistically gifted youth seeking to venture into the arts and entertainment industry with business skills development and financial literacy is essential for their long-term success and sustainability in the field.

Business literacy empowers artists to effectively manage their creative careers, navigate the complexities of the arts industry, and monetise their talents in a sustainable manner.

Understanding fundamental business concepts such as budgeting, marketing, contracts, and intellectual property rights enables artists to make informed decisions, negotiate fair deals, and protect their artistic endeavours. By equipping young artists with these essential skills, we not only empower them to thrive professionally but also contribute to the growth and vitality of the arts community as a whole.

Art Career Guidance:

  • Personalised career counselling to help students navigate the various career paths within the arts.
  • Creating a supportive community amongst students that fosters personal growth and resilience.
  • Assistance with portfolio development, audition preparation, and application processes for art schools and programs.
Many young artists may possess immense talent but lack the knowledge and resources to effectively navigate the various pathways within the arts. Art career guidance offers personalised counselling and assistance, helping artists identify their strengths, set realistic goals, and develop strategic plans for their artistic journey. Whether it involves selecting the right educational opportunities, building a professional portfolio, or navigating the intricacies of the job market, art career guidance empowers artists to make informed decisions and take proactive steps towards achieving their aspirations.

Holistic Health Awareness and Support:

  • Programmes focused on the mental and emotional well-being of students.
  • Programmes encouraging self-awareness, authenticity, and emotional intelligence.
  • Cultivating a community of artists who are grounded, resilient, and emotionally intelligent individuals.
No artist who can create and produce output without tuning into their inner being for inspiration and productivity. Artists need to be holistically well to function at their optimum level because living as an artist entails daring to live authentically and honestly. The best output by an artist comes when they are authentically honest about who they are and what they feel. It is in this way that they inspire another life to do the same.

We believe in nurturing the holistic well-being of our students, providing them with the tools and support they need to thrive not only creatively but also emotionally, mentally, and physically. By fostering an environment of self-awareness, authenticity, and emotional intelligence, we empower our young artists to tap into their innermost selves for inspiration and creativity.