Bishop Lavis was a hive of activity as youngsters and the young at heart celebrated Youth Day on Monday.
Bishop Lavis Community Pulse took place at the Bishop Lavis High School grounds, which also showcased the Bishop Lavis Cadets programme.
Organiser Wesley Moodley said the event was aimed at getting the youth involved in marching bands.
“Here in Bishop Lavis, we have a number of youth at risk,” he says.
“The Cadets programme was created to attract the youth to join in when they see the good that comes from the cadets.
“Today the cadets, along with the Anglican Church Brigade, Pilgrims Crusaders, Trompoppies and youth in the area, marched from John Ramsay High School to Bishop Lavis High where the event kicked off at 10am.”
Purple Heart Beats DJs kept the crowd jolling between the various acts.
It was also the first time Idols season 13 winner Paxton Fielies, 18, from Bishop Lavis, performed in her own community.
“I finally got the chance to perform in my hometown. The feeling was such a thrill and burst of pride to be welcomed by the residents of Bishop Lavis,” said the star, who performed her hits Angifuni and Demonstrate.
“I felt nervous before going on stage because there were hundreds of people screaming with excitement. I’m a vessel to show Bishop Lavis youth that dreams can come true, it happened to me and so it can happen for them.”
Jarrad Ricketts also performed all his lekker hit songs to a roaring crowd who sang and danced to every song.
“I love giving back to the Cape Flats, the youth are important and they need every bit of investment they can get in their young lives,” said the singing sensation from Ottery.
Another Lavis local, former Idols finalist Zoë Zana, also entertained the crowd on stage.
Cape Town Mayor Dan Plato and Safety and Security chief, JP Smith, also attended the event.
“Thank you to the cadets and the community for what they are doing, there is a roll out of more projects coming soon for Bishop Lavis,” said Plato.
The day was filled with other activities, including netball, soccer, ball games, health awareness, and board games.