A Hanover Park man started a band at his home where he teaches youth to play instruments in a bid to keep them from the streets.
Riedewaan Fernandez, 59, has opened the doors to his Karieba Court home where he teaches laaities music.
He currently teaches 35 kids, but only has 12 instruments; 11 trumpets and a trombone.
The Stallions Brand Band also practises at the Hanover Park bus terminus as there is no other open space where they can safely train.
“Due to shortages of tools we can’t accommodate all of these youth anymore,” says Riedewaan.
“I went to appeal at minstrel troupes who were interested in the band to use us without any tools, and Kenfac Entertainers saw the potential in the kids and made the difference and sponsored the band with tools but on the condition that the band plays for them when needed.”
Riedewaan Fernandez started a band at his home in a bid to keep children off the streets. Picture supplied
The band has already performed at public events including Buggs World, several klopse events and at Newlands Cricket Ground.
Riedewaan says it’s been difficult drumming up support for the band.
“We tried reaching out to our councillor to help with a safe space to practise as the terminus gets too dangerous due to gang fights.
“We live in a crime- and poverty-stricken community where we can’t rely on parents to help fund the project.
“We are asking people to help us help these children by investing in them.”
If you would like to help the Stallion Brand Band, call Riedewaan on 061 151 8169.
The Stallions Brand Band practises at the Hanover Park bus terminus because there is no open space where they can train safely. Picture supplied