Thabang Ka Mmino Music and Cultural Project began in March 2003 with only Marimba and recorder ensembles, thanks to the idea of Sr. Berchmans Dowling, a St. Matthews High School teacher. According to Sr. Berchmans, she was inspired by two realities: first, the dearth of facilities for extra-mural activities for young people in Soweto meant that their primary means of socializing was almost exclusively through gangs, drugs, alcohol abuse, or other dangerous activities. Secondly, and perhaps most significantly, she was motivated by her admiration for the talent and love for music and the arts that are a part of every African child’s rich legacy and inheritance. Sister Berchmans desired to provide pupils with an opportunity to develop and express themselves creatively via music, dance, and art.

The project’s progress over the last nineteen years has been quite remarkable. As the youngsters matured, additional musical instruments were introduced, as well as dance and art. Saturday morning lessons are held, and during the day, St. Matthews School is a genuine swarm of activity for all the groups—marimba, dance, orchestra, and art—where the students’ passion is evident.

One unique aspect of the project is that, with the exception of the conductor and choreographer, the most of the teachers are senior students at St. Matthews School. Their commitment and abilities are admirable. Sr. Berchmans is the project’s coordinator, and her vision, expertise, hard work, and enthusiasm keep her going. She always works with the foresight of establishing a body of support for the initiative in all aspects to assure its longevity.