The Howick community rallied behind three young violinists to make their music dreams come true, funding a trip to Cape Town where they will take part in masterclasses and a national concert.
Howick, KZN Midlands (02 July 2025) – In a remarkable story of hope, generosity, and local pride, three young violinists from the rural Lions River community are heading to Cape Town this July to take part in the Suzuki Music Masterclass Workshops and National Concert, an unforgettable opportunity made possible by the incredible support of the Howick community.
Vuyo Gcaleka (14), Ntando Ndlovu (14), and Lungelo (10) have been selected to join aspiring musicians from across the country at the prestigious event, which runs from 16 to 18 July in Paarl, followed by the National Concert in Cape Town on 19 July. The three children, each with a passion for music and the violin, have grown in talent and confidence through the Lions River Violin Programme.
Vuyo and Ntando, both now in high school (Injoloba High School and Howick Secondary School, respectively), began their musical journeys at Lions River Primary School. They have both performed at past Suzuki national concerts and are recognised for their dedication and growing musical skills.
Lungelo, the youngest of the group, is in Grade 3 at Lions River Primary and lives at the Khazimula Children’s Home in Lidgetton. He only began playing recently, after a kind-hearted resident from Howick purchased his very first violin for him. Now, under the nurturing guidance of his teacher, Carol Solomon, Lungelo is showing natural talent and enthusiasm, practising daily with discipline and delight. Carol will participate in and observe the two-day teaching workshops held before the annual national concert.
The children will be chaperoned by Slondile Mhlongo, Principal of Lions River Primary School and a passionate advocate for arts and education. Slondile has been instrumental in exposing learners at her school to various musical instruments, including the violin and recorder.
What makes this journey truly special is how it came together. On 22 June, Chris Luyt, board member of Khazimula Children’s Project, shared Lungelo’s story on the Caritas Howick WhatsApp Group in a humble appeal for financial aid to send Lungelo to Cape Town. The response was nothing short of astonishing.
Within a week, just under R20,000 was raised, enough to cover flights and accommodation for all three children. The donations came from generous individuals across Howick and the KZN Midlands, with incredible support from Caritas Howick, Howick Choristers, and other compassionate members of the community.
“This is about so much more than music,” said Chris. “It’s about telling these children that their dreams matter—that they are seen, heard, and supported.”
The Suzuki Music Masterclasses will give Vuyo, Ntando, and Lungelo a chance to play alongside fellow young violinists, learn from world-class educators, and experience the magic of a national stage. For children from modest backgrounds and limited opportunities, it’s a moment that could shape the rest of their lives.
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Both Khazimula Children’s Home and Carol Solomon have expressed deep gratitude for the outpouring of support that has made this life-changing opportunity a reality.
“We are so moved by the kindness shown to these children,” said Carol. “It has opened a door that will inspire them for years to come. The teacher trainers coming from Belgium and the United Kingdom are phenomenal and highly experienced, regularly teaching the Suzuki method in various countries and on various continents.”
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who contributed,” added Chris. “What this community has done is show these children that anything is possible. That with support and heart, the future can be bright.”
As they pack their bags and rosin their bows, one thing is clear: the music of Lions River is heading to Cape Town, and it’s filled with hope, gratitude, and promise.
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