Youth Programme Isiseko
Isiseko, founded in 2009 is Zip Zap’s recreational entry-level programme, introducing children from 7 to 10 years old to the world of circus through foundational skills and activities across all circus disciplines.
Participants meet once a week, on Saturday mornings for 2 hours, during which time children attempt a variety of circus skills, play and learn together. The primary aims are for children to develop a basic level of circus skills and experience the value of diversity and teamwork. Through their weekly engagement, they develop a sense of belonging, a willingness to learn new skills and enjoy the rewards of positive social interactions.
Isiseko is a feeder programme to the more advanced Zappers programme.
Social Challenge
A lack of recreational facilities results in young people getting involved in anti-social behaviour. Children still experience racism and other forms of discrimination, such as sexism. Many children have low self-esteem and may find it hard to cope with daily challenges.
Programme Goal
For children and youth to develop a basic level of circus skills and enable them to experience the value of diversity and teamwork.
IMPACT
Isiseko welcomed 66 participants during the 2024 programme year. The children were very excited to work towards their goals of learning circus skills across a variety of disciplines, and most participants reported learning what they had hoped to during the training sessions. The programme encouraged physical activity in a creative environment, and the children were able to develop, grow and learn through play. Physical assessments helped instructors to assess the progress and capabilities of the participants and ensured effective programme content to meet programme objectives.
Participants view Zip Zap instructors as role models and this helped all the children to feel safe, motivated and nurtured throughout the programme. The Isiseko programme instils greater confidence in many of the participants, which created a huge amount of excitement as the children prepared to showcase all they had learned during the programme year at the annual year-end Programmes Show & Tell event.
The programme fosters diversity and creates the ideal space for children from various backgrounds to create friendships, learn from each other and grow together within the group. These are key components to encouraging teamwork, which is central to the programme.
Beneficiaries
Sessions
Instructors
Coaching Support
Accepted into Zappers
Sponsors
A Rising Star
Ikho Dyakalashe
In his first year in the Isiseko programme, Ikho is already making waves at Zip Zap. A learner at Harry Gwala High School in Khayelitsha, he joined the programme in 2024 and has shown incredible progress in a short time.
Although naturally shy, Ikho is highly motivated and gives his all to every challenge he takes on. His willingness to step out of his comfort zone has been inspiring, and his passion for dance and creative movement shines through – not just at Zip Zap but also at liturgical events at his church. Through the programme, he has combined his love for movement with newfound flexibility and strength, gaining confidence along the way.
In November 2024, Ikho took to the stage as part of a 4-person adagio act at the Zip Zap Programmes Show & Tellevent, delivering a strong and memorable performance. His commitment to teamwork is just as impressive – he is always ready to support his fellow participants, and his warm smile reassures and uplifts those around him.
Ikho’s dedication and embodiment of Zip Zap’s values earned him the prestigious 2024 Alan & Tracy Winde Fellowship Award, generously sponsored by Zip Zap patron Anita Mendiratta. His hard work was further recognised with an invitation to join the Zappers student performing troupe in 2025 – an opportunity he eagerly embraced.
He loves being at Zip Zap. He is very modest about his achievements, and he is excited at the opportunities that await!
With his humility, determination, and growing confidence, Ikho is set for an exciting journey ahead. Watch this space—his story is only just beginning!
For more information on how to join one of our programmes, email
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