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Rena Le Lona is an after-school Creative Centre in Diepkloof, Soweto for 200 children between 3 and 18 whose parents have died of AIDS. The children live with their caregivers or head their homes in Diepkloof. The philosophy of the centre is upbeat, positive and aim to change the attitude of people towards AIDS.
AIDS is viewed as an opportunity for everyone to become more human.
H = Heart, a move towards Compassion.
I = Identity, identifying with every other human being and seeing more than the physical aspect of life,
V= Voice, being able to express oneself in every circumstance and bringing unspoken issues to the surface.
AIDS = our ability and opportunity to be of service to others.
The Centre is an opportunity for children to enjoy their childhood and develop their potential. Artists, dancers, singers, photographers, actors, mime artists and other inspirational people, drawn from every group in South Africa, coach the children.
The children also spend time in small contact groups, they do their homework, and participate in life-skills classes. As they grow older leadership and money management and other such subjects are included. Extra lessons to enable them to do well at school will be on the agenda. A fully nutritious lunch starts the afternoon activities. In addition the centre offers support groups for teachers and for the caregivers of the children.
Adults nationally and internationally can sponsor a child so that all her/his material needs are met. Our aim is that each child has one person who cares specifically for her or him. This is an opportunity for the sponsor to make a difference.
As the children develop they will begin to give back to the community and beyond the community. The concept can be replicated like a franchise in other zones in Soweto and elsewhere.
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