Save the Children and Lolhiphop Records have joined forces to launch an innovative programme aimed at using music to advance the psychological and physical wellbeing of orphaned and vulnerable children in South Africa.

A pilot of the Peace of Mind through Music was launched on Monday, November 1 in Soshanguve, Pretoria. Save the Children will join Lolhiphop Records artists Tshepo Machitele and Wax, as well as expert music therapists to begin work with two groups of children from Jehovah Jirah Orphan Centre.

The purpose of the project is to use music and musical exercises to assist Orphans Vulnerable Children and Youth (OVCY) to process emotionally disturbing issues so that they can concentrate on cognitive learning, and to facilitate positive changes in their behaviour and emotional well being.

The project was initiated by Save the Children’s Rodney Knotts, after meeting with afro-pop singer Tshepo Machitele. Tshepo grew up in a shelter for orphaned and abandoned children called Sithabile, in Boksburg, Johannesburg.

While at the shelter, Tshepo composed a song about the experiences of children at the shelter. Lolhiphop Records later signed up Tshepo and together with producer, Wax, he recorded the song “Mother, Father’ as a single. Touched by the song’s earnestness and relevance to the lives of orphaned and vulnerable children, Save the Children responded by offering to use Tshepo’s music and experiences to provide support other children who grew up in vulnerable conditions.

Talking about the project, Rodney Knotts, Regional Advocacy & Communications for Save the Children said it represents a step into an under-explored avenue in music and development.

“We aim to use the power of music to empower children to deal with difficult life experiences. The project also represents a success story as a new path is opened for Tshepo Machitele, who has overcome his childhood adversity through music, and now has an opportunity to touch the lives of other vulnerable children and youth in South Africa”, Knotts said.

The pilot phase of this project is funded by Irish Aid. Save the Children is the leading independent organization creating lasting change in the lives of children in need in the United States and around the world. Recognized for its commitment to accountability, innovation and collaboration, Save the Children’s work takes them into the heart of communities, where they help children and families help themselves. It works with other organizations, governments, non-profits and a variety of local partners while maintaining its own independence without political agenda or religious orientation.