More than 3,000 young artists participated in the Citys Arts Aweh! programme, a seven-month creative development initiative that culminated in a series of exhibitions across eight communities.
According to the City of Cape Town , the after-school programme, designed for youth aged 6 to 18, provided hands-on training in visual and performing arts while fostering self-expression and community engagement.
Hosted at 13 City-owned venues, the initiative offered workshops in painting, photography, hip-hop, dance, poetry, and beadwork, among other disciplines. Beyond artistic skill-building, the program also created employment opportunities for young creatives through the Expanded Public Works Programme EPWP.
Showcasing talent across Cape TownFrom May to June 2025, exhibitions in Belhar, Eerste River, Rocklands, Ocean View, Mfuleni, Mamre, Bonteheuwel, and Athlone displayed works ranging from recycled-material sculptures to canvas paintings and functional art pieces. Participants also performed in mini-concerts and fashion shows, modeling upcycled clothing and presenting original poetry and drama pieces.
Councillor Francine Higham, Mayoral Committee Member for Community Services and Health, emphasized the programme's broader impact: Arts Aweh! gives young people the tools to express themselves while building confidence and life skills. Not only does it help children develop fine motor skills and build self-esteem, but it also encourages self-expression where children can explore and communicate their emotions.