After qualifying with a doctoral degree in education from the University of Toronto in Canada, Princess Cynthia returned to Kwa-Zulu Natal, where she became actively involved in educational and empowerment projects. She also served as the Director of Arts and Culture for the KZN Department of Education and Culture before starting her own businesses and moving to Mbekweni in Paarl.

Her two non-profit organisations, Prince Ndabuko Creative Solutions and Qolothani Makhosikazi Social and Cultural Services, focus on education; the promotion of the Zulu culture and lifestyle; as well as job creation; charity services; and fundraising within the Mbekweni community.

Celebrating African culture and heritage forms an important part of this ambitious educator’s vision, and this led to their involvement during the Cultivaria arts festival. An authentic-looking township scene have been erected adjacent to the Heinz Emporium at the Faure stadium and approximately 50 Mbekweni artists and crafters will be showcasing their talents for the duration of the festival.

“The artists will be demonstrating traditional beadwork; music; and dances, while several community theatre groups will do short performances. I believe that the conservation of art, culture and tradition form an important part of the educational process. It is also the best way to encourage transformation and I think this is a great opportunity for us to foster intercultural relationships,” mentions Dr Kabanye.

The cultural outreach aspect of Cultivaria also saw festival organisers engaging with several township schools during the week leading up to the festival. In celebration of Heritage Day, the organisers will host a street parade and festival with featuring giant four-meter high puppets used during the Soccer World Cup ceremonies; live bands; as well as performances by soccer freestyler, Chris Njokwana. The action will start at the Mbekweni taxi rank at 11:00 before moving to Paarl East at 15:00.

From 23 to 26 September, the Cultivaria arts festival, with title sponsors FNB and Drakenstein Municipality, will transform the historic town of Paarl into a cultural hub with some of the best-known artists in the country appearing at various venues throughout the town. The jam-packed festival calendar promises visitors a weekend of excellent entertainment with various musical productions; ballet; classical music; children theatre; comedy shows; as well as wonderful food and wine.

For more information, visit www.cultivaria.com.