Khayelitsha, home to over 2 million people, is one of South Africa’s most marginalized communities, with an official unemployment rate of 50%—likely even higher in reality. Despite many unemployed graduates in the media and entertainment industry, the township lacks safe spaces and resources to nurture youth, leading to high rates of drug abuse, crime, gangsterism, and teenage pregnancy. Yet, Khayelitsha holds immense creative potential and attracts international tourists through its arts and culture. Jikela Studios aims to change this by
supporting local talent and launching a fundraiser to help unemployed youth through arts and music education, addressing the urgent need for such institutions in the township.

With creatives bringing in international tourists to enjoy the experience of what it means to live in the township, Khayelitsha still stands to have the potential to run its own economy through art and innovative entrepreneurial opportunities. Like many townships in South Africa, Khayelitsha has so much talent to be shared with the world. We at Jikela Studios want to ensure that these talents and gifts do not remain unseen and disappear into obscurity. With the lack of art and music schools in townships, including Khayelitsha, this fundraiser will appeal to 54% of unemployed youth.