Forest Whitaker inspires Langa pupils

American actor Forest Whitaker and Ikamvalethu Secondary principal Samkelo Mabece.

The Whitaker Peace and Development Initiative (WPDI), founded by award-winning American actor Forest Whitaker, awarded more than 100 Ikamvalethu Secondary School Grade 8 pupils certificates on Tuesday.

WPDI conflict resolution trainer Usher Mandindi said the Langa school’s pupils participated in dialogue sessions focused on equipping children to deal with conflict resolution and other social challenges in and out of the school environment.

He said the pupils who took part in the year-long course had gained valuable skills and were now ready to impart their knowledge to the community.

“Children are often caught in conflicts and situations beyond their control and we are hopeful they will be able to cope,” said Mr Mandindi.

Ikamvalethu Secondary School principal Samkelo Mabece welcomed the Oscar-winning actor, Mr Whitaker to a thunderous applause from the pupils, many of whom said they recognised him from watching movies.

“It is his efforts like these that make the world a better place and we thank Mr Whitaker for reaching out to schools like ours. Many children come from broken homes and when given a chance to rub shoulder with giants like Mr Whitaker, it can be a life changing moment,” said Mr Mabece.

Retail Capital Solutions (RCS) chief executive officer Regan Adams hailed Mr Whitaker for his selfless act by investing in the youth of the country.

“Your programmes of bringing peace in fragile communities in different regions is noted and we commend you for that. If we can teach children at young age, we will build better communities,” said Mr Adams.

Grade 8 pupil Zintle Nchela said she learnt a lot from the sessions and hopes to work with the new intake in 2024.

“Like us those children will be coming from primary school and we will need to share what we know with them,” she said.

Mr Whitaker delivered a message of support to the pupils and urged them to make use of the skills they have acquired.

“You are peace makers now, go and cultivate that culture; in that way you are creating a safer environment. You are all leaders,” he said.

Actor Forest Whitaker addressing the pupils.

RCS group chief executive officer Regan Adams, actor Forest Whitaker, Ikamvalethu Secondary principal Samkelo Mabece and RCS chairman Benoit Cavelier.