Empowering Youth and Strengthening Communities Through Creativity and Expression
Last month, Liberty Promenade hosted its highly anticipated Next Generation Musical Showcase, marking the 13th year of an initiative that has transformed lives, fostered creativity, and built a sense of unity in Mitchells Plain and the Cape Flats.
Originally launched in 2012 as a recycled fashion show, the event has grown into a much anticipated annual event that amplifies young voices and shines a spotlight on pressing social issues. Over the years, the musical showcase has evolved into a cornerstone of community engagement, with 766 learners and 161 school entries to date. The mall has awarded local schools with an excess of R730,000 in prizes, empowering schools and inspiring young performers to reach new heights.
This year’s showcase centred on the timely theme, “Stay Safe in Cyberspace,” with 14 schools delivering spirited performances that blended education with entertainment. Through song, dance, and theatrical displays, learners raised awareness about essential online safety practices, tackling topics such as limiting screen time, avoiding harmful comments, the dangers of catfishing, and safeguarding personal information.
A Legacy of Impactful Themes
Each year, the Next Generation Musical Showcase is anchored by a theme designed to spark conversations and inspire creativity among learners. Past themes such as “Popular Women in History,” “What Makes Me Proud to Be South African,” “Save the Earth,” and “Mental Health and Superheroes” have highlighted societal issues while encouraging youth to express their perspectives in innovative and thought-provoking ways.
By providing a platform for learners to share their ideas in an expressive way, the event empowers young voices, making them catalysts for change and inspiration for their peers. These themes have not only resonated with audiences but have also sparked critical dialogue within families, schools, and the broader community.
Beyond the applause, the showcase has provided exposure for star performers, with some participants gaining recognition through media coverage, radio features, and even unique opportunities, such as becoming the voice of Liberty Promenade’s festive radio jingle.
Over the years, the impact of these donations has been transformative for schools, enabling them to create fully functioning dance and music studios, equip classrooms with essential educational materials, and improve their infrastructure with new classroom furniture. The donation has also helped enhance extracurricular offerings with sports equipment, sound systems, aftercare facilities and schools also benefited from outdoor structures and shelters. Gardening and environmental projects have further fostered sustainability, while general school enhancements have contributed to a more vibrant and conducive learning environment for both learners and teachers.
“We want to take a moment to express our heartfelt gratitude for the opportunity to compete in the Next Generation competition. We value the inclusion of our special differently-abled learners. Your support and encouragement not only made this experience possible, but also inspired us and our learners to strive to give our best.” Joan Januarie, HOD for Beacon School for LSEN.
Celebrating 2024’s Winners and Highlights
This year’s showcase delivered unforgettable moments, with learners donning costumes inspired by social media icons and emojis to bring their messages to life. Alongside the performances, student-designed posters addressing online safety are currently displayed at Liberty Promenade, ensuring the conversation extends beyond the stage.
The 2024 winners were celebrated for their creativity and interpretation of the theme:
- Beacon School for LSEN: Winner in the Special Needs category.
- Eastville Primary and West End Primary: Winners in the Primary School category.
- Portland High and Spine Road High: Winners in the High School category.
Each winning school received R10,000, while standout learners and teachers were recognized with special awards for their exceptional contributions. Shoppers voted online for their favourite performance, giving a sixth school the chance to win R10,000. The winning school in this category was Imperial Primary.
A Community United
The Next Generation Musical Showcase has become more than just a competition; it is a unifying force for the community. Over the years, it has brought together students, families and neighbours to celebrate creativity and shared values. The event fosters a sense of purpose and pride while giving learners a stage to shine.
Brenda Bibby, General Manager of Liberty Promenade, reflects on the event’s journey and ongoing impact: “The Next Generation Musical Showcase has grown into something truly special. Over the years, we’ve seen the incredible impact it has had on learners, schools, and the broader community. This year’s performances were nothing short of inspiring. The creativity, thoughtfulness, and enthusiasm displayed by the students reflected a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the digital age. We are immensely proud of how this platform continues to empower young people and bring our community closer together.”
