There is a new sound ringing through Hanover Park, turning heads and filling the air with great excitement.
The Tjommies Sporting Club opened their doors three years ago, after making their debut on the Jive Culture Shock minstrel competition, where they blew audiences away.
Chairman Washief Losper said they initially started the club to empower youth from underprivileged backgrounds in Cape Town, by using cultural music and arts.
“Our dedication to nurturing talent has led us to be named Cape Town Culture Shock and Keep the Dream Champions for three years in a row,” Mr Losper proudly said.
“We believe in providing a platform for young individuals to showcase their talent, develop their skills, and transform their lives.”
Although The Tjommies heavily focused on the minstrel and malay choir culture and music, they also added a “artisan and skills development” portfolio, which seems to be attracting the attention of the youth.
Mr Losper said The Tjommies had entered several partnerships with technical colleges, with the aim of offering struggling youth an opportunity to develop a skill.
“Our collaboration with local schools and educational institutions helps ensure that young individuals receive the academic support and resources they need to succeed in life, whether in arts or other fields,” Mr Losper said.
However, he added that the main focus was give youth from Hanover Park “hope”.
“At Tjommies, we focus on uplifting youth from communities like Hanover Park. We believe that every young person deserves the chance to showcase their talent and contribute to society,” Mr Losper said.
The Tjommies, who are well known for their powerful rhythms and engaging performances, joined forces with other local bands, soloists as well as an international band visiting from Germany, in a landmark celebration of love, peace, and community recently (Saturday October 26).
“The event was held in one of Cape Town’s most challenged neighbourhoods, the event lifted spirits, bridged divides, and gave residents a reason to come together in joy and harmony,” Mr Losper explained.
“More than just entertainment, the event was a beacon of hope—a reminder of the strength and resilience of the community.”
One of the organisations partnered with Tjommies, Uthando SA, was happt to be supporting initiatives providing hope to communities.
James Fern from Uthando SA said: “We are immensely proud of the leadership of the Tjommies, who have taken the initiative to provide opportunities for young people through music.”
Mr Fern added that activities at the Tjommies were always “meaningful” and “engaging” for youth.
“This is so critical for our youth in an area such as Hanover Park which has so many negative distractions. Organisations such as the Tjommies are invaluable for areas such as Hanover Park who are battling,” he said.
“They deserve to be rewarded, properly supported and properly financed so they can do more.”
BLOB Looking to make a larger impact? Become a sponsor or partner with Tjommies Sporting Club to contribute directly to our youth programs and events. Contact Rushmieyah Hector on 074 465 3765 or Washief Losper on 083 675 4565.
