The lights are set to rise on a story of resilience, unity, and unbreakable hope as the young artists of Joburg Child Welfare (JCW) bring their original performance, String Valley, to the professional stage at Joburg Theatre in Braamfontein.
This powerful youth theatre production is one of Johannesburg’s most inspiring performances this season, shining a light on creativity as a force for healing and empowerment.
Time Out Johannesburg sat down with JCW Inner City Program Manager William Secwammung, who shared the story behind String Valley and the profound impact it has on the young people participating.
A story of courage and community
String Valley tells the tale of children in a hidden land who grow up under the shadow of a ruthless ruler, Sekatana, whose iron fist crushes any room for freedom or dreams. Yet, in the quiet corners of their world, the children discover something unbreakable: the strength they find in one another.
Through whispered tales, shared laughter, and the courage to stand together, they transform their pain into resilience. As William explains, “Each story told becomes a thread, weaving a fabric of unity strong enough to defy fear.”
The performance is a journey of reclaiming identity, dignity, and the unbreakable bond of community. JCW chose this particular show because it is “both for us and about us, a celebration of our shared experiences,” William adds.
It’s also an opportunity for audiences to glimpse the histories and memories that shape who these young people are today, and for these talented performers to shine in a professional theatre, where their talent deserves to be seen.
Healing through art
Participating in the arts and storytelling offers a crucial and creative outlet for children and youth in Johannesburg’s inner city. It allows them to express emotions that are often difficult to put into words, helping them process their experiences, build confidence, and connect with others.
William explains that standing on stage allows the children to rewrite the narrative of vulnerability, transforming it into courage, self-belief, and the realisation that their stories matter.
“The arts are not just a form of entertainment,” he says, “they’re a form of therapy, a way for these young people to find their voices and reclaim their power.”
How Jozi can show up for JCW
For audiences, attending String Valley offers more than a night at the theatre. It’s an opportunity to see the stories, struggles, and triumphs of Joburg’s youth reflected on stage, and to be part of a movement that uplifts and empowers.
“When the public shows up, listens, and supports,” says William, “they become part of the journey, helping us create safer spaces, provide resources, and open doors of opportunity.”
Support for Joburg Child Welfare doesn’t stop with buying a ticket. It can take many forms, from financial donations and contributing goods like clothing or books, to volunteering time and skills, or organising fundraising campaigns.
The success of initiatives like String Valley is a massive inspiration for the future. “I can definitely see the arts as an essential part of our work with children,” William concludes, “not just as a creative outlet, but as a tool for healing, empowerment, and growth.”
See String Valley live
Catch the young stars of Joburg Child Welfare in String Valley at the Joburg Theatre's Space.com venue on Saturday, 1 November 2025. Tickets are available via Joburg Theatre’s website and Webtickets.
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