The thing about giving “giving back” is that it always runs the risk of sounding worthy or “do-goody”. Its a a tired phrase and doesn’t nearly do justice to the experience that certainly we at Maverick Warehouse have had with our own incubation program. When the business was formed we decided from the get go, to integrate into our DNA and business philosophy a strong drive to develop extraordinary talent. We identified the members of our close harmony group aca-Thatu and took the first steps on the journey to guide and support them, so that they can take their rightful place amongst South Africa’s top entertainers. We saw in them enormous raw potential, all they needed was a little help and support on the way up. In the process of sharing our knowledge and expertise we have gained immeasurably in return. We have developed a great love and appreciation of traditional Zulu music and a real reverence for the natural gift that the group possesses. We have learned a great deal about how easy and relaxed people with great talent can be. There’s no clutching of breasts and cries of angst in aca-Thatu’s rehearsals. Nothing of the high drama and delicate egos that we were accustomed to from our years as professional performers. Just a quite willingness to work hard, practice hard and make the best possible music. So in contrast to the traditional exchange of older more experienced artists giving back to young and up and coming ones…we feel quite strongly that it is us who have gained the greatest rewards.
lovely article … so proud to be a part of this project and concept!