CAPE TOWN-The young violinists in Masiphumelele can look forward to performing on different stages in their new branded T-shirts.
The City of Cape Town’s Arts and Culture Branch awarded a Grant-in-Aid to Masi Violin
Outreach, enabling the Masiphumelele-based music education programme to provide branded performance T-shirts for its growing roster of young musicians.
Masi Violin is a non-governmental organisation (NGO) that aims to foster unity among
learners while supporting local job creation through a partnership with
The Sewing Café, a skills development centre in Masicorp.
“It’s amazing to see our students take pride in what they wear and what they represent — this
initiative is about more than music; it’s about community, confidence, and belonging,” said
founder of Masi Violin Outreach, Nadiah Mony.
Community collaboration
The NGO partnered with The Sewing Café to design and produce 100 performance shirts for
students.
“The collaboration not only gave students something tangible to represent their identity
on stage but also supported and partnered with a local non-profit that trains and employs
people in Masiphumelele,” she said.
Onke Mbopha, one of Masi Violin’s alumni teachers, emphasised the project’s significance.
“It’s more than just clothing; it shows how far we’ve come and how supported we are. I’m
truly grateful,” Mbopha said.
The T-shirt campaign was inspired by the organisation’s goal to give students a sense of
belonging and professionalism during performances, creating tangible representation of
their musical identity.
Programme growth
Masi Violin has experienced significant expansion this year.
“It has grown to over 70 active students, continued training alumni teachers through its
Legacy Programme, and strengthened partnerships with local schools and community
organisations,” Mony said.
Support from the National Lotteries Commission and Bishops Diocesan College enabled
the launch of songwriting workshops and the introduction of five new iPads into teaching
programmes.
These digital tools help students record music, complete online theory exams, and develop
valuable technological and administrative skills.
Future needs
The organisation faces increasing demand for its services, with over 40 children waiting to
join next year.
This expansion would bring the total student reach to approximately 100 students.
“The organisation is seeking support to expand its instrument collection. Partnerships for
the nutrition programme and transport support are also welcomed to ensure students can attend lessons, orchestra rehearsals and musical concerts across Cape Town,” she said.
Masi Violin will perform at the Fab Ideas Christmas Market in Sun Valley from Saturday
13 December until Thursday 18 December.
Local stalls are donating goods for a fundraising raffle, with all proceeds supporting the
programme directly. Christmas hampers and prizes from local brands will be available. The
programme will conclude with its annual Masi Festival, a community celebration featuring
music, youth creativity and collaboration.
Interested supporters can follow @masi_violinoutreach and @fabideaschristmasmarket
for updates and raffle details. Donations can be made through the organisation’s website at www.
masiviolinoutreach.co.za.
