Iintombi Zilapha (The Girls Are Here!) Who they are: “Iintombi Zilapha” is a Xhosa phrase that means “The Girls are Here”. A dynamic group of young township girls, the Iintombi Zilapha Traditional Dance Group is based in Gugulethu, South Africa.
Using the art of traditional African dance, music, singing, and poetry, the Iintombi Zilapha Traditional Dancers speak out in their community against teen pregnancy, dropping out of school, HIV/AIDS, delinquency, and abuse.
These young women have already made a name for themselves in their community, performing all over the Western Cape. The group was even flown out to Seattle, WA in 2008 to showcase their abilities. The Vision:
Iintombi Zilapha Traditional Dancers emphasize traditional ancestral values of respect, responsibility, and hard work that can be easily forgotten in fast-paced city life. These young dancers are equally committed to both creating beautiful art and empowering youth to create lasting change.
Through intense training, mentorship, and support, the Iintombi Zilapha Traditional Dancers hope to foster both musical and dance talents in disadvantaged youth and to provide a safe place for entertainment. The Goals of the Iintombi Zilapha Traditional Dancers:Iintombi Zilapha Traditional Dancers would like to further their influence on youth in the community through educational workshops and dance camps.
Having already gained massive acclaim in their community, the Iintombi Zilapha Traditional Dancers would like to continue performing locally and internationally. In order to do so, the team needs to first acquire complete costumes for all dancers and a full set of musical instruments.
Senior students from Iintombi Zilapha Traditional Dancers that are committed to the values of the team and display high academic ambition are the likely candidates for college scholarships through These Numbers Have Faces. Do something:
Can you help with Intombi Zilapha costumes and instruments? Donate here and specify your donation to Iintombi Zilapha Check out our How You Can Help section for ways to put on dance contests, fundraisers, and more for the girls of Iintombi Zilapha.
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