Soul Buddyz, the innovative childrens programme, has come out tops again in the annual, Sunday Times Next Generation awards 2014. Soul Buddyz was voted Coolest Community programme in the survey. The study, now in its 10th year, polled 5500 eight to 23 year olds across the country to find out who they think are South Africa’s top brands.
Soul Buddyz Clubs are a direct result of the popular Soul Buddyz television series. The clubs provide an interactive environment for ongoing learning, where children are encouraged to have fun and be creative whilst mobilising them to take responsible action. Schools and libraries are promoted as community resources and invaluable life skills are shared.
Lebo Ramafoko, CEO for Soul City Institute said, “this is exciting news for Soul City.” “As we embark on a new programme targeted at young women this recognition confirms that the work we do is effective and worthwhile.” She added “Ofcourse none of this would be possible without support from our teams in communities and donors.”
Some highlights of the many development initiatives buddies have embarked on has seen clubs work with communities to assist impoverished child headed households in their community, build a park for the communities children, spread health messages in an engaging manner with members of their communities. At the clubs the children get to interact with each other, work together on social enterprises and receive information on issues affecting their lives.
The Soul Buddyz television series 6 is currently in development and will air on SABC 1 in 2015.