KNYSNA NEWS - The Knysna Municipality’s economic development team – under the leadership of Ilse van Schalkwyk – has made a difference in the lives of three event managers from the local community.
After a selection process, Oliver Mabukane, Bulelane Memane and Vuvu Ralushe were chosen to receive a small sponsorship from the municipality to enable them to host their events in the township and at Club Vinyl on Main Road during this year’s Knysna Oyster Festival.
The municipality has also provided funding for a mentor, who has experience in presenting larger events, to provide some guidance to these young entrepreneurs. The municipality has subsidised a large aspect of their marketing budget – allowing the events to create professional posters, video clips and other promotional material.
Colour Splash Party
Memane, who will be hosting the Colour Splash Party – featuring well-known Johannesburg DJ Bongs on Saturday 30 June at Club Nitelife in Dam-se-Bos – feels strongly that there is a real need for well-organised events that cater for all cultures to take place in the Knysna township.
“The reality at present is that people are travelling to George and Oudtshoorn to enjoy a gathering that appeals to them. The municipal assistance will enable us to have the confidence and knowledge to put on top-quality events in our areas for our local people. This will boost the local economy in the future, by providing job opportunities for people in these communities where the lack of employment is a daily reality for many.”
Ikasi Colour Fun Run
Mabukane owns the Knysna Ikasi Experience, a registered events company affiliated to the Yona-Yethu Initiative NPO, whose main focus is the development of the youth and the local economy. The Ikasi Colour Fun Run, which will be followed by a street bash afterparty, will take place on Sunday 1 July.
The Knysna Marathon Club will kindly be assisting with the registration for this event and the start will be at the Khayalethu community hall – with the 4.7km run finishing at the Concordia community day centre (CDC).
This will be the first organised fun run to take place in the township and Oliver hopes that this event will become a highlight on the annual calendar.
Green Carpet Fashion
Ralushe will host the Green Carpet Fashion Extravaganza at Club Vinyl on the Main Street of Knysna on Sunday 8 July – with help from club co-owner Charmaine Krijger. Ralushe, who already has a few events under his belt, was born and raised in Knysna and matriculated at Percy Mdala High School in 2003.
“My event will showcase local designers and models while township DJs, a breakdancer and a fun photo booth option will add to the flavour of the event. We hope to sell tickets to people from all cultures and walks of life with our regular entry, VIP and VVIP options.”
Festival supporters are encouraged to support these three events. Find out more details on www.oysterfestival.co.za. Tickets are also for sale at the Knysna Tourism offices.
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