February 2007 - Billie Paea

This following Month has been hard trying to update database and Networks within the community to see where we can start to offer programs to develop the south Auckland area. I have started some of the Dziah boys off with workshops at schools for this year creating more work for the Dance Tutors through more connection with the kids. Some of these schools are on board with Books and Homes where they go into schools to speak and inspire kids with there own personal stories. This has created a good network for us to build relationships with more schools to help offer our programmes at Dziah Dance studio and also after school programs.

Our Hiphop Programme has started with Breakdancing and Krump Jams twice a week. We are still building numbers and there is a lot of interest. The hardest part is getting the youth to the venue as unfortunately not all of them can get transport there and back. In response to this we are looking at getting funding for a van so that we can go do pick ups and drop offs. Also we need to talk to more parents to gain their trust, bring them over to the studio and introduce them to the crew and explain what we are doing and what we are about.

I have been busy designing more info packs about our Dziah Studio in general and what we are about, so ;we can get that out to parents and schools. Also Resources are limited and working within limited Budgets is difficult, but I always say make do with what you have. We also have some really amazing artwork coming through that would appeal to the youth.

Dziah performed at the Niki Cruz Crusade at Manukau City Velodrome. Niki was a former Gang leader in New York City; he changed around his life and is now inspiring youth to look towards a better future. We were able to talk to a lot of kids and invite them along to our studio after our performance. There were over 10 000 present. It has been a good start to the year with promotion and publicity for the studio and what we offer as we also opened for the Pasifika Festival. I am looking forward to the weeks ahead.

Cheers Billie

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