PLETTENBERG BAY NEWS - Rage 4 Good, the social development component of the annual Plett Rage event, has grown from strength to strength since its inception in 2012.
A needs analysis of the area was conducted by Plett Rage event organisers RK Events and events and marketing agency Firecracker. This year, Qolweni (the community adjacent to key Rage venue, VIP night club) was selected as the direct beneficiary of the social development campaign alongside Rage 4 Good's beneficiary, The Bitou 10 Foundation, an education and development foundation committed to changing the education landscape in the area by providing support to schools, educators and learners and creating opportunities for meaningful educational extension for all.
Local council, businesses and community volunteers called on the organisers to help co-ordinate a boxing gym facility in Qolweni. According to Nicole Powell on behalf of Rage 4 Good, "There are two boxing coaches in the area who desperately require a safe space to teach boys and girls the art and skill of boxing. A highly disciplined sport, boxing is one of the best sports to promote healthy living and instill a responsible culture in young people."
A tournament for 30 young boxers was held on Saturday, November 29, in the recycling shed in Qolweni.
The official Rage 4 Good bracelet is regarded as a must-have accessory. These bracelets have been created by women living in Qolweni. The materials were provided by Rage 4 Good and the proceeds from the sale of these bracelets will benefit the women who provided their skills and The Bitou 10 Foundation. The women of Qolweni have also been commissioned to do hair wraps for 'ragers'.
"Mindful of its carbon footprint, Rage 4 Good will also work hand in hand with a local recycling company that will help curb the environmental impact of the festival. Not directly related to youth development, this initiative is based on ethical decisions to use a local company's services, keep locals in jobs and save the environment at the same time," said Powell.
The #MyRage social media campaign was launched this year. "Students who purchase merchandise from one of the Rage 4 Good ambassadors, one of the women from the township of Qolweni or those who donate to the Bitou 10 foundation, in cash or online, can post a photo or status on the official Plett Rage 2014 Facebook page using the hash tag #MyRage. This post will automatically be entered into a lucky draw where a VIP experience at VIP nightclub can be won," explained Powell. For more information visit: http://www.plettrage.co.za/
Between 8 000 and 10 000 school-leavers have been arriving in Plett since Friday, November 28. The sunshine and blue skies are being enjoyed by all with various music events around town for their entertainment.
Plett's beaches are packed with school-leavers basking in the sunshine and enjoying the hospitality offered by Plett residents working in collaboration with Plett Rage organisers.
ARTICLE: CANDICE LUDICK, KNYSNA-PLETT HERALD JOURNALIST
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