Dear Honorable Minister Gayton Mc Kenzi.
I introduce myself as Fredaulischia Palm from the corners of Namaqualand, Springbok. I come from the community Bergsig. I am well known as an Afrikaans Rymklets artist, a public figure, a role player and I am also known for my hand in the community when it comes to our children through motivational speaking.
I listen a lot to your statements and situations you address. I must say that I am very impressed and excited for the change that is taking place and that has yet to be shot. I would like to point out that here in Namkwaland we do not like to take advantage of the privileges offered to the Northern Cape. It is a fight and a struggle to help our young people to exercise their full potential without being disrespected or exploited. As the Provincial Secretary of the Trade Union for Musicians of South Africa in the Northern Cape is it my duty to call out to seek help for our artists, who are giving up hope and getting caught up in drug abuse and crimes because there are no activities that bring them closer as members of our community in Bergsig. I have knocked on many doors even at our own DSAC. I was rejected many times or never heard back. I was also on the SABC News channels and flew as far as Pretoria to represent the minority of our population, The Namakwalanders.
As I said, the opportunities come as far as Upington and Kimberly and many are misinformed that many gatekeepers make it difficult for us. As the National Organizer of TUMSA, it is also difficult to build up the right contacts even if you move in the right circles, already because many do not want to hear about the real and necessary changes that must take place when it comes to our artist. I am glad to hear you are always talking in the right direction. Because I see how you take to heart what your people expect from you and that you speak for them, I communicate with you directly to understand my frustration.
My desire is that our DSAC will fulfil their full roles here in the community of Bersig, Springbok and not only do their work properly, but also show interest. The focus is mostly only on sports, but when it comes to our artists, then the ears are closed. I signed up as a member of the Arts Counsel already last year, and heard nothing from them, when I inquire, I am either ignored or told the same story of induction. How will we be able to save the next generation if we cannot stand together as a generation and plow back. Things are changing a lot, and nothing is the same as it was a few years ago, not only are our public services a pain, but our annual beautiful Nama Festival was also taken away from us a few years ago and thus we are becoming a Ghost Town, where tourist has always created part, not only of our beautiful flowers, but also our beautiful festivals.
Thank you very much for taking the time to read this.
I know it's probably too much to ask and that my expectations may be too high, but I'll appreciate it if I can get some feedback. It would reassure me just to know you listened to me.
Regards
Fredaulischia Palm