06-08-2025
Holy Rosary hosts concert for Teddy Bear Foundation
Daniella Govender (11) and Nicholas van Niekerk (14) were among the young performers who took centre stage at the Voices for Teddies concert held at Holy Rosary School recently.
The event, part of the school's Mandela Month celebrations, aimed to raise funds for the Teddy Bear Foundation for Abused Children.
Daniella, who has been preparing for months, said, 'I was a bit nervous to perform but also excited because I know it's for a good cause. It feels good knowing it's all going towards charity.'
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She believes it is important for young people to get involved in community outreach and charity events, as it helps others their age who are in need.
Daniella performed Vivaldi's Concerto in A Minor (First Movement), a piece she has been perfecting over the past eight months.
'I practised for about two hours a day from December through to August,' she explained. 'I hope the audience feels it was a great performance and that they spent their money well.'
For Daniella, music is more than just notes and rhythms.
'It helps me express my emotions. Whatever I'm feeling, I put into my music.'
Fourteen-year-old Nicholas van Niekerk, a Grade Eight learner at St Benedict's College, brought powerful energy to the stage with his drum performance during a band rendition of Don't Stop Me Now by Queen.
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'I love playing drums because it lets me express myself in ways other instruments don't,' said Nicholas.
'There's also a sense of brotherhood when you play in a band. You challenge each other, try out new things and have fun together.'
Nicholas was proud to be part of a concert that supported a greater cause.
'I just wanted to help the less fortunate. Everyone gets a slice of cake in life, but some people get smaller slices, and they deserve more.
'Sometimes you've got to step in and help, because life limits some people in ways they don't deserve,' he said.
