Empowering creativity: Children thrive at the Mark Jeneker Foundation art classes

The Mark Jeneker Foundation has officially launched an arts programme on Saturday, February 7 aimed at nurturing creativity and empowering young people from Mitchells Plain and surrounding areas.

Foundations founder, Mark Jeneker, said the programme, which will run from the YMCA in Portland, is designed to encourage broad community participation and to make art accessible to children who may not otherwise have the opportunity to explore their creative talents.

“We have so many children who are interested in art, and this space allows them to grow, learn, and express themselves. Art has huge potential to empower children and positively change their futures," he said. 

The programme offers both morning and afternoon classes. Twenty children have already signed up.

A monthly fee of R150 covers the cost of paints and materials used during classes, while a once-off registration fee of R100 applies. This pricing model was deliberately chosen to keep the programme affordable, said Mr Jeneker. 

“There are art classes that charge R700 or more per month, which unintentionally exclude children from the Cape Flats and townships. We want to remove those barriers,” he said. 

He said the long-term dream is to establish a fully equipped arts studio and to expand the programme beyond Mitchell's Plain. While the current focus is on children, Mr Jeneker said there are plans to include youth as well, equipping them with creative and practical skills.

Beyond art techniques, he said the programme also teaches sustainability and self-employment. Children are being trained in face painting, for example, enabling them to offer their services at community centres and events, earn an income, and begin understanding entrepreneurship from a young age, he said. 

“This initiative is about keeping our children safe, while also teaching them how to learn and earn,” said the founder. I want to teach them everything I know, and I hope they will grow to become even better than me,” he said. 

A parent, Candice Van Der Ross, shared her joy at seeing her daughter join the classes.

“She has always been artistic and creative, even from a young age, so this feels like a natural transition for her. This isn’t just a hobby-this is her passion, and I would never want to stand in her way,” she said. 

She added that her daughter had previously been featured in a children’s art book and recognised among the top young artists in the country, further affirming her talent and dedication. "As a mother, together with the school and community, we are incredibly proud. We are excited to see what the future holds for her.”

She also emphasised the importance of supporting children’s artistic development.

“The world we live in today is very different. We are in a technology-driven era, and the careers our parents pushed us toward are no longer the only path. Arts, design, and graphics are becoming mainstream, with many opportunities available.”

She encouraged parents to listen to their children and support their interests, even when they may not fully understand them. “Let your children lead you. Supporting their passions will ultimately make them happy and fulfilled.”