It was a privilege for the SOS Charity Fund, an initiative by DWR Distribution, to support the 2-day Inspired2Unite Mega Masterclass Bootcamp.
Hosted at the GrandWest casino on 2 and 3 July 2018 where over 350 teens were mentored and attended a programme presented by industry professionals.
Karen Burt of Planet Productions and Gavin Taylor, Group Technical Events and Entertainment Manager of GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World, founded Inspired Stages in 2014.
It’s easy enough to start a project, but these two have not backed down, and there latest Bootcamp had the aim of preparing youngsters for both the stage and for life. “The jam-packed days ultimately worked on building self-esteem, self-belief and self-worth to survive both on and off stage,” said Karen.
A counselling and mentorship project saw girls and guys over the age of 19, who themselves had been through the Inspired Stages programme over the years, now reach out to display leadership and role model qualities to those attending the bootcamp. SOS’s donation of R10 000 was given to these volunteers.
Workshops were presented by special guests and artists in South Africa. The list, amongst others, included Rudi Smit, international Jazz Funk / Hip Hop choreographer and dancer from Cape Town, talented pianist Garth Tavares, performer Sophia Vorster, Cape Flats saxophonist, Donveno Prins, life coach Tarryn Tomlinson, Signature SA and many others.
In typically Inspired Stages style, the programme was a combination of transformational life coaching and life lessons, alongside performance masterclass workshops in music, vocals and dance.
DWR has been involved with the project since its inception, and it was great to reach out with the SOS this year. “Thank you to Karen and Gavin for involving us and enabling us to give back,” said Duncan Riley of DWR Distribution.
