www.MyPE.co.za:
The metro’s premier seaside event is committed to making a real
difference in people’s lives by investing in the many skills of the
local community.
“The MTN Nelson Mandela Bay Splash Festival is an event both for our
people and the visitors to our unique city,” says festival director
Glenn van Eck. “It’s an
opportunity to showcase our talents,
adventurous sporting events, wonderful beaches and, of course, our
Friendly City attitude.”
Van Eck says young entrepreneurs, musicians and sporting fanatics are
encouraged to take part in the festival, which offers a range of
community-driven and international sporting events, more than 180 craft
and food stalls, a lifestyle marquee and free live entertainment.
Various structured sports and activities encourage local youth and
school participation, for example the Community Youth Sports Programme
that includes beach volleyball, soccer and netball as well the Izani
Siqubhe swim.
In a first for the Splash Festival, says Van Eck, a series of open
auditions landed 30 of the almost 200 participants a spot in this
year’s entertainment line-up. “Some of them have never performed live
and they will now get an opportunity to showcase their talent alongside
top local and international acts.”
These performers will also be added to a local entertainment database,
which is being put together by festival organisers and is aimed at
event organisers, function planners and corporates.
Last year’s Crafts in Action marquee proved very successful and will
this year house a wide variety of handmade crafts made by development
artisans.
Community projects and charities that have benefited from the festival
include the Community Chest, Oliver Foundation, Red Location, Age in
Action (Kirkwood), the PE College Project, Sinethemba Children’s Care
Centre and 16
