EERSTERUST HERITAGE ARTS FESTIVAL

National Youth Development Outreach, commonly known as YDO, located in Eersterust, is responsible for this initiative with financial support from the Lotto. YDO is an organization working with youth in conflict with the law and with youth at risk, and are confronted daily with young people who are struggling to define themselves culturally. Although this is a struggle that may be common to all cultures, the effects of this pursuit are evident in the social dynamic of disadvantaged communities. According to Freddy Arendse, the festival director and executive director of this vibrant organization, “we are tired of saying “ Eers was ons nie wit genoeg nie, nou is ons nie swart genoeg nie”. We believe that there is enough strength, uniqueness and goodwill amongst ourselves to maximize  

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our potential and to rise to the fullness of our destiny. The diverse nature of what constitutes the so called “Coloured” people has often stirred up much debate. The questions that are frequently asked are: how can we express ourselves in the true essence of who we are; how can we get a real sense of celebration if most of the celebrations happen outside the community context; how should we position ourselves in society today to make an impact and be valued as fellow South African citizens; how do we get rid of the inferiority that has been forced upon us by our past, without being prejudiced. This group represents a true microcosm of the “rainbow nation” and this festival will create a platform for the celebration of the diversity, complexity and their unique contribution to South Africa. This Festival is not exclusive to the “Coloured” expression. It will merely showcase the celebration of our diversity, the cultural richness and the contribution of local communities in the arts. The community of Eersterust is fortunate to host this first community based Heritage Arts Festival of its kind, and hopes to extend this to other communities in South Africa.