Durban — Through its work with underprivileged boys and girls in the INK (Inanda, Ntuzuma and KwaMashu) area, NPO Monarkhia Academy hopes to create a bright future for these youngsters.
The founder, Cebo Mzinyane, who is a University of KwaZulu-Natal graduate with a BSc in Electronic Engineering, said the academy’s main focus has been the mobilisation of underprivileged children and giving them a platform to showcase what they are capable of in sports, recreation and academics.
While the NPO was officially registered this year, Mzinyane explained that he, with the help of others, has been busy in the community with work in relation to young boys and girls prior to 2022 after he noticed a mentorship gap in society in 2019.
He said he was inspired back then during a children’s soccer match that he had facilitated in Lindelani.
“While playing I was constantly answering questions from children about life, sports and prosperity. I noted a mentorship gap in our society. I therefore realised the need to use sports and academic support as a way of mentoring and influencing young individuals to become better versions of themselves.”
Mzinyane decided to formalise the interactions in 2019 and in subsequent years.
The academy is preparing to host a film exhibition on Saturday at the Lindelani Art Centre that aims to teach township children and youth about the film industry and its available careers.
“This event is going to be hosted jointly by Monarkhia Academy and Mirror World Production Company, which is known for its recent film, ‘Identity’, which was recently screened at the Durban International Film Festival. The owner and director of Mirror World, Mr Siphakamiso Mafuleka, has established a partnership with Monarkhia as a way of giving back and empowering township children through his expertise,” Mzinyane said.
Daily News