Musician Jehoiakim Fortune, 17, will be performing in concert to raise funds for tutoring aspiring young musicians.
Image: PIcture: Supplied
A young Ottery musician will be performing in a fund-raising concert to give back to the community using music as “a powerful tool to keep kids occupied with something positive” at Abundant Life City Mission church, located at 6 Olga Road in Grassy Park, on Saturday, May 3.
Jehoiakim Fortune, 17, a pupil at Grassdale High, aims to raise funds for tutoring aspiring young musicians alongside Christo Williams, the host and co-founder of Abundant Life City Mission church.
Abundant Life City Mission, led by Christo and Bronwyn Williams, was established from a call to support community enrichment and development.
“The church was founded out of the call from God and a love for community enrichment and development,” explained Mr Williams.
He went on to share their vision: “Jehoiakim and I want to start the musical tutoring classes again. We saw the great benefit it had for him. I still believe music is a powerful tool to keep our kids occupied with something positive.”
Jehoiakim’s musical journey began at a young age; he started learning the recorder in 2016. His passion quickly evolved into a fascination with the guitar, and today he demonstrates remarkable versatility, performing pieces from renowned artists such as George Benson, Joe Pass, Jimmy Dludlu, Jonathan Butler, and Earl Klugh.
“This is a moment to be celebrated. A lot is happening in the Cape Flats with great talent like this music being celebrated,” said Mr Williams.
While Jehoiakim faces the usual challenges of a teenager, Mr Williams praises his focus and determination, which he attributes to the influence of Jehoiakim’s father, Jerome Fortune, an accomplished guitarist himself.
“He gets that natural musical ability runs deep in his bloodline,” added Mr Williams.
Mr Williams also highlighted the psychological benefits of music, stating: “It eases stress, helps with concentration, and encourages creative thinking. I believe each Cape Flats child must be introduced to music.”
He mentioned the influence of Cameron Ward, another inspirational musician in the Ottery community.
“Jehoiakim’s time spent at the Cameron Ward Foundation afforded him the opportunity and privilege to perform on many amazing stages in Cape Town,” Mr Williams said.
As part of their initiative, they welcome monetary pledges to support the cause. Additionally, donations of working musical instruments are encouraged, as they will be put to good use in the music tutoring classes.
For more information about the concert, contact Bronwyn Williams at 067 326 1489.