{"id":43751,"date":"2025-02-13T11:16:31","date_gmt":"2025-02-13T09:16:31","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/udexpress\/local-woman-championing-community-change-through-art-20250212\/"},"modified":"2025-03-21T14:35:47","modified_gmt":"2025-03-21T12:35:47","slug":"local-woman-championing-community-change-through-art-20250212","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/novanews.co.za\/udexpress\/local-woman-championing-community-change-through-art-20250212\/","title":{"rendered":"Local woman championing community change through art"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p>Natasha Van Antwerpen, Miss Uitenhage Community Plus Size title-holder and NPO Director, is spearheading an initiative to inspire change and support youth in her community through art and empowerment. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Collaborating with local talents like Mr D and Team Lawyers, Van Antwerpen is set to take part in an event aimed at motivating residents and fostering hope amid challenging times.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Committed to addressing issues of unemployment, and supporting the underprivileged, Van Antwerpen is dedicated to creating opportunities. \u201cThere\u2019s not enough opportunities for our people; jobs are scarce. But I\u2019m trying my best to help where I can,\u201d she explained. Her plan includes training and placing five individuals in the hair industry, and facilitating a career in the beauty sector for another.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The community event aims to unite citizens and uplift the youth by showcasing local artists\u2019 talents. Van Antwerpen emphasised, \u201cWe want to encourage people never to give up hope. In your toughest times, stand together and believe in God and yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Financial constraints pose a challenge for Van Antwerpen, especially regarding event logistics and training costs. Yet, her determination remains steadfast. \u201cEvery day, people come to me for help. Even street children know me as Aunty Tasha or Boss T. It\u2019s difficult, but I\u2019ll give my last to help,\u201d she shared.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Van Antwerpen acknowledged the genuine talent and dedication of local artists involved in the event.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cThey have pure hearts and want to gear the community towards believing that all things are possible if you just believe,\u201d she said. Her vision is, \u201cChange begins with individual efforts and believing in a better future,\u201d she revealed. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Looking ahead, Van Antwerpen\u2019s commitment to her community remains unwavering. Her faith in God and the hope for local business support fuel her mission. \u201cI cannot stop; people need me, and my community needs me,\u201d she stated. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>With perseverance and community collaboration, the beauty queen plans to continue in her efforts of creating a brighter future for Kariega and surrounding areas, embodying the belief that every effort can make the world a better place.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>\u201cI know of people who, because of life\u2019s challenges, are ready to just give up, the youth has lost hope and the battles people face are just too much. But even with all that, I really encourage people not to give up on themselves; there\u2019s always a chance to turn things around. That\u2019s why we\u2019re here as well. Speak to us, or anyone you trust, don\u2019t bottle things up, let others help you carry your load,\u201d Van Antwerpen pleaded. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, Van Antwerpen asked the community to get more involved with helping others, \u201cIf we all come together and put our resources together, so much can be achieved. I also hope more businesses can help us make a difference in the community.\u201d <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Vibes, the entertainment event will be held at the Kariega Town Hall in Market Street, on February 21, from 18:00 to 22:00. Entries will cost R20 for children, and R30 for adults. <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>For further information, contact Van Antwerpen at 066 402 1983. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Natasha Van Antwerpen, Miss Uitenhage Community Plus Size title-holder and NPO Director, is spearheading an initiative to inspire change and support youth in her community through art and 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