The City of Cape Town provided opportunity to the young people to engage in arts and cultural activities as part of the Arts Aweh! programme. It was observed in 2026, from January to June. This initiative was an after-school programme that offered learners access to free, safe and creative activities in community spaces.
Such activities at seven City-owned spaces included drawing, painting, photography, hip-hop, dance, performance, poetry, claywork and beading. Along with all other art materials and supplies provided at no cost to the participants. The programme also created job opportunities for 19 young creatives and cultural workers, through the Expanded Public Works Programme.
Considering this, Member of the Mayoral Committee for Community Services and Health – Councillor Francine Higham stated that Arts Aweh! is about more than keeping children busy after school. It gives young people a safe space to be creative, try something new, work with others and build confidence.
According to Higham, for many children, access to art materials, guidance and a platform to perform or exhibit their work can make a real difference. They want more learners and parents to make use of these opportunities when the next programme opens.
As per the sources, the programme included five exhibitions that were held recently in Athlone, Ysterplaat, Pelican Park, Mfuleni and Hanover Park. The event included paintings, drawings, functional art pieces, clay work, sand art and rock art.
These exhibitions gave learners great chance to participate in mini-concerts and fashion shows where they showcased their poetry, drama, dance and clothing, which they created from recycled material.
Cllr Francine Higham mentioned that they are already planning for the next programme and encouraged learners, and their parents, to enrol when the opportunity becomes available. Arts Aweh! is the programme that helps children learn, grow and reach their potential by offering new and creative opportunities.