How the Choir was selected and named!
The members of this multi-talented choir originate
from Soweto, South Africa located 20 kilometres southwest of
Johannesburg. Soweto is South Africa’s largest black community alive with
a vibrant energy and rich in culture and history. Designed to segregate
the black community during the apartheid era, the resilience and spirit
of the people triumphed and brought them together, making Soweto the home
of South African freedom music.
Memeza Africa not only gives members the
opportunity to showcase their talents, but offers the potential to
provide an income for the members in a community where the unemployment
rate is staggering. Employment for one choir member directly impacts an
average of seven to ten people as when one earns a living, it is shared
among all family and extended family members.
This collaborative venture provides an opportunity
to make dramatic changes to the lives of the choir members as well as to
the lives of their families.
Memeza Africa presents a beautiful blend of
musical styles, while also delivering a brilliant display of traditional
African song, dance and drumming. It reflects cultural values, teaches us
understanding and acceptance and interprets our hopes and dreams for a
brighter future in South Africa. |