(KZN’s own PG Bison Buccaneers)Since its founding 13 years ago, the Field Band Foundation (FBF) has grown tremendously into a mature and goal achieving non-profit organisation, whose dream is to dramatically impact the lives of South Africa’s economically challenged and often misguided youth through cheerful music and dance. With our incredible forthcoming 2010 FIFA World Cup performances, the FBF gains an opportunity to soar even higher and achieve global exposure.
FBF’s objective is to attract youth from socially and economically challenged communities. Through the magic of an exciting and creative activity the foundation can bring about positive change, giving students the ability to end their cycle of poverty and meaningfully shape a constructive future. The FBF Academy is the substructure on which the Field Band Foundation aims to fulfil each member’s emotional, spiritual and intellectual needs, targeting youth between the ages of 7 and 21 all from various socially and economically challenged parts of South Africa. Through the power of music, the FBF stimulates, excites and empowers the youth.
The many difficulties faced by members include the fact that 61.2% of their parents are unemployed, or living in child-headed households, as 1.8% of them do. Before joining the FBF, 92.7% of members had no access to arts or music and their average age is 15.5 years old. However, on a positive note, the FBF has expanded and now boasts 38 field bands countrywide with 4,000 members from 297 schools in 114 townships. With results such as these, the invaluable change to each member’s life is proof that the FBF is both very necessary and a success.
The FBF is fortunate to have a productive and close relationship with the Norwegian Band Foundation, (http://www.musikkorps.no) whose steady commitment over the years has had a massive impact; contributing to FBF’s overall growth as an organisation and greatly enriching the experience and lives of hundreds of children. This association allows the FBF to undergo continuous external evaluation, helping in providing a constant challenge and a standard to live up to.
The FBF was given the honour of playing a part in the 2010 FIFA World Cup celebrations, providing a fantastic opportunity for its members to be part of such a prestigious event.
“We passionately believe in the astounding impact that the discipline of music and dance has on our youth,” says FBF director Retha Cilliers. “With our field bands in full action over the World Cup period, we had a chance to show the world our youth’s amazing talent.”
The FBF Championships are a not-to-be missed event. This will take place Johannesburg Athletic Stadium in Gauteng on October 8. More information on 083 775 4348 or visit www.fieldband.org.za
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