KNYSNA NEWS - Creating a legacy of readers is the main aim of the Knysna Literary Festival youth programme, says festival founder and CEO of event sponsor Pam Golding Properties Knysna and Plett.

"The festival was initiated because of a strong desire to engage with the younger community, to allow their imagination to take flight through the writing of short stories, poems and essays," Dobson says.

It has hosted a writing competition every year over the past decade, in English, Afrikaans and isiXhosa for kids in the Knysna and Plettenberg Bay area. About

2 000 primary and high school learners from 25 schools have taken part so far.

Dobson said to stimulate literary awareness, the festival also started to host workshops in 2015, focusing on both the skill and sheer enjoyment of writing and reading.

'It gives value to lives'
She said the workshops, facilitated by the Cape Town NGO FunDza, have been hosted in English and Afrikaans, with about 20 to 40 children at each workshop. "Reading books and stories influence one's choices, it gives value to lives, enhances critical and creative thinking and it encourages personal development."

Dobson said the festival also aims to contribute to education. "Funds are raised by festival and Literacy Liaison events during the year. After our last Literary Liaison panel discussion, we were thrilled to raise enough money towards a full bursary for learner Lixa Sithonga at Knysna Primary this year… We want to thank the public for their support as without that it would not be possible to give back to our community."

Find out more
Visit www.knysnaliteraryfestival.co.za.

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