GLONEVA

Our local partner, Global Network Evangelistic Association (known as Gloneva), has a small day centre in the heart of Namuwongo. At least 40% of the Namuwongo residents live on less than £1 a day (World Bank). Societal problems include sexual assault, underage sex, teen pregnancies, open sewage, flooding, mob justice, drug addiction and disinterest in education. It is a very difficult place to survive in let alone thrive in, particularly if you’re a young person playing on the streets with no activities to engage you.

Gloneva is an organisation that works with children, youth and vulnerable women to provide them with performance arts skills training and a livelihood. Its premise is that by finding young and vulnerable persons an activity and a skill, it will keep them safe and on a good path. Each week vulnerable and disadvantaged young people find sanctuary in dance classes and circus acrobatics at Gloneva, while Brass for Africa adds the music and life-skills component with two brass band lessons delivered each week for two bands of differing abilities. Both bands are at a performing level where they have the opportunity to be paid for their performances and some of the proceeds help to pay towards their school fees.

Through brass music education, life-skills training and performance opportunities we have witnessed incredible transformations among our beneficiaries at Gloneva. We have seen life-skills such as resilience, leadership, concentration, problem-solving, grit and perseverance, all develop as a result of learning and playing music. This safe space and sense of community allows us to make an impact not only on the individual but also in addressing wider issues and advocating for social-change in society such as Gender Equality, Disability Inclusion, Community Empowerment and Workforce Readiness.