The initiative uses popular youth culture as a medium to ‘step up’ the fight against HIV and AIDS. Through this initiative, young people will be equipped with the necessary skills, knowledge and tools to enable them to live positively, become AIDS activists and Peer Educators.
Hip-Hop culture has evolved into a powerful phenomenon and is one of the leading forces within youth popular culture worldwide. In Zimbabwe, this culture represents a powerful movement with a new vibrancy and energy. Jibilika Dance Trust has decided to use this to its advantage.
The official launch ceremony is set for July 6 at the College of Music in Harare.
Plot Mhako, the founder and director of Jibilika Dance Trust, spent a month in a US Embassy-sponsored International Visitors Leadership Program on hip hop and civic engagement stimulated new creative thinking. Step Up 2 HIV came about following this.
There will be Step up 2 HIV dance theatre performances in at least 10 schools around the Mbare (Arcadia, Waterfalls, Mbare) and High Glen districts (Glen –View, Glen – Norah, Highfield, Budiriro, Mufakose). The performances will be on issues around HIV Prevention and Sexual Reproductive Health.
A series of performances, training and workshops in schools will culminate into a schools festival to be dubbed STEP UP 2 HIV SCHOOLS FESTIVAL where each school will present a dance theatre musical piece carrying a message on HIV/AIDS. At least 20 schools are expected to participate with the most outstanding schools will be awarded certificates.
“We are grateful to PEPFAR for their leading role in the fight against the deadly pandemic and having faith in the young people as patrons of their own destiny by supporting STEP UP 2 HIV,” said a spokesperson for Jibilika.
Post published in: News