KNYSNA NEWS - During December, the children of Rheenendal enjoyed a two-week holiday programme coordinated by a local NGO, Stories Unites Us.
The project aims to unite communities through the art of storytelling, with a cultural exchange that builds social cohesion, collective understanding and shared peace.
The hope is that short immersion periods like these help to improve resilience, mental health and overall happiness among the youth of the community.
During the programme, about 45 children aged between six and 13 were exposed to various daily workshops including movement, journalling, photography, art and music.
In addition, each child was guided on a hero's journey, and learned to consciously navigate difficult emotions in order to connect to their own inner strength.
A highlight for the little ones was the full day immersion in the Knysna forest, which intended to reconnect the kids to the natural world and their coexistence with this important ecosystem.
Despite living just minutes from the expansive forest, for most of the children this was the first time experiencing it up close.
Some of the participating children enjoy a lunch break.
This was the first full-length programme by the organisation, but it won't be the last. Stories Unites Us plans to return to the community in April to continue the work they have started with the same group of children.
At this time the initiative is relying solely on donations to keep the project steaming ahead. You can help by donating via the following link: www.backabuddy.co.za/stories-unites-us. Art supplies, educational tools, printers, cameras, meals and other physical donations are also welcome.
To learn more or to contact the team directly, head to @storiesunitesus on Instagram, or info@vladia.org.
Young children pay attention during the photography workshop.
After the forest walk the children took part in some fun activities too.
The children also enjoyed outdoor games after the long forest walk
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