Times Of Swaziland: JUHEE BUILDS E200K ART HALL

JUHEE BUILDS E200K ART HALL
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Dudu Dube on 29/11/2023 13:11:00


Mbabane - A former pupil of Waterford Kamhlaba United World College, Juhee Num,
has built a talent hall worth E200 000 at Malindza Refugee Camp.
Num, a dedicated advocate for the arts, recognised the importance of providing
opportunities for the less privileged. She identified a need and took it upon
herself to create an avenue for these individuals to explore their talents.
Understanding the significance of musical equipment in nurturing budding
talents, Num ensured that the art hall was equipped with a variety of
instruments. This thoughtful provision will enable children who are interested
in music to develop their skills and pursue their passion. Num also emphasised
the transformative power of the arts in expanding perspectives and promoting
empowerment.
Expression
She recognised that artistic expression could serve as a valuable tool for
personal growth and self-discovery. Additionally, she highlighted the potential
of the art hall to serve as a beacon of hope, particularly for young refugees
who may be seeking solace and inspiration in their new environment. Num’s
initiative to create this opportunity for the less privileged demonstrates her
commitment to fostering inclusivity and providing a platform for individuals to
explore their artistic potential. “I am a self-proclaimed artist and as a
young person I never got the opportunity to pursue art. I was hoping that there
would be a platform for young people and children to explore and develop their
talents in terms of creativity. My other aim is to promote and encourage
different forms of education such as creativity skills, communication skills,
self-expression and entrepreneurship skills,” she said.
Through the platform provided, Num said the youth and children can develop their
technical skills in art, music, theatre and dancing. She said they were hoping
that the established stage could also provide public speaking opportunities to
the youth. “Not only can the arts be used for income, but also as a source of
entertainment and hobby for the children,” she added.
Num has lived by the quote that reads, ‘blessed is the hand that gives than
the one that receives.’ She says she has been in the country for 15 years and
has learnt the importance of humanity. She went on to describe the refugee rate
in the world and how it has affected the innocent. “One key part of who I am,
that I learnt while growing up in Eswatini is ubuntu. I will carry this wherever
I go and after witnessing the refugee crisis I wanted to contribute in the one
way that I knew how to- which was art.
Connection
“I hope that with mutual respect for one another and the connection we have as
people, we as a collective society can support those who are displaced due to
war, the civil unrest and disasters,” she said. Num did not only contribute to
the arts hall but has also opened an opportunity for children who might be
interested in entrepreneurship. She initiated a goat project and bought 20 goats
worth E19 000. Originally from South Korea, Num has also created a bridge for
the refugee youth that wish to study the arts further through a partnership with
the music department in a few schools. “This will provide the youth with the
opportunity to extend their education and career. Furthermore, through the goat
project, the youth will develop their entrepreneurship skills and it can also be
a source of income for their families,” she said. The art hall was officially
opened last weekend at the Malindza Refugee Camp and children enjoyed the
different art activities including painting and playing the musical instruments.
Num said she felt fulfilled as she saw the children and the youth enjoying and
appreciating the different musical instruments. “Seeing the children play
really reminded me of my French tutor who always spoke about the refugee
camp,” she added.