Siphakeme .Mnindwa
Mashudu Mambo
LOXION Movement is hosting a talent show on Saturday at Thabiso Youth Centre in Makokoba suburb, Bulawayo to empower talented youths and fight against drug abuse.
The movement was launched in 2019 by a unified combination of artists like Asante Mo, Lights Out, Senko, TRP and DJ Blaaq.
The director of the initiative, Newman Trindad Gondwe, popularly known as “Asante Mo,”said the initiative is meant to empower talented artists in the area.
“The talent show is focusing on talented children from Makokoba suburb and Mzilikazi suburb and these kids must be between the ages of five to 16. We are searching for talented dancers, musicians, actors, models, deejays or any other special talents.
“Our motivation has been in ensuring that we help young people discover and grow their talents at a young age. This has been influenced by the increase in the cases of drug abuse in the city,” he said.
Gondwe indicated that they were inspired by the work that is done by the youth in areas like Pumula.
“As we were going around in other areas and performing, we realised that there is a need to invest in our communities. We visited Pumula and we noted that there are vibrant youths who are united in developing their areas and we felt that it was also important as artists to invest in our communities,” he said.
He stated that after the selection, they will be hosting grooming sessions three times a week.
“After the selection of talented youths, we will go a step further to educate and groom them about establishing themselves as artists.
This is because there is a misconception that art is just a hobby but we will take this opportunity to groom them and give them a platform to grow their craft,” he said.
Gondwe indicated that they have a number of activities lined up for the year.
“As Loxion Movement, we have a number of activities lined up for the year and these entail comedy shows, modelling shows, kids carnivals and the Makokoba-Mzilikazi street festival,” he said.
Ward 7 Councillor Thandiwe Moyo, applauded the efforts of the movement and stated that these will go a long way in fighting drug abuse.
“This is a good initiative by the youths as it demonstrates their commitment and willingness to address the pressing issue of drug abuse in our community. The goal is to create a safe space for open conversations about the impacts of drug abuse through art,” she said.
Online Reporter