Reference from Imbali
- 1. 24 February 2016 Acrobalance workshop at Imbali On Tuesday 16 February Irene Vincent ran an acrobalance workshop with Imbali students and staff. She began the session with a number of fun warm up games and activities. These games broke the ice and her open and friendly manner really put everyone at ease. Many of these games and movement exercises we will be able to use at Imbali in the future as icebreakers and during workshops. Then Irene introduced some simple acro balance positions. This was a lot of fun. She explained and demonstrated each position with great clarity and then gave everyone a chance to try. Students and staff really enjoyed themselves and even during the short span of an afternoon it was evident how confidence and trust was built and developed among participants. Irene’s open, responsive and approachable attitude made participants feel safe and secure and eager to try new things. Her inclusive approach ensured that the larger and shy people felt as comfortable and eager to explore acrobalance as the more athletic individuals. Imbali would like to welcome Irene back any time to work with us again. Yours sincerely Justine Watterson Imbali Director
- 2. Some words from Imbali staff and students: ‘It was fun; I was reminded of when I was a child and the games we played then. I felt like I was ten years old again.’ Portia Thenjwayo, Imbali office coordinator ‘I enjoyed this acrobalance so much. It taught me balance, which is something I can apply to other areas of my life and also my art. Participating in the workshop also brought out the child in me.’ Sifiso Suntsha, Imbali 1st year student. ‘This taught me focus and balance. I had fun. I never know that circus things can be a part of art; I learned this from the acrobalance. Also, if you build a proper base, then you can put anything on top. This is true of life too.’ Hendrick Eksteen, Imbali 1st year student. ‘Doing these balances was very creative. It was a lot of fun. I think it can help me to create things I want in my life. It can help me think clearly.’ Malefetsane Moloi, Imbali 1st year student. ‘Balance is important it is about taking a chance. We had to believe in ourselves. I learned to do this, also develop mental strength.’ Vuyo Mfokazi, Imbali 1st year student. ‘I enjoyed this acrobalance a lot, even if you are big like me you can balance on these thin people. It was exciting and too much fun. I had no idea I could be on top of someone thinner than myself.’ Thuli Maseko, Imbali 1st year student.
- 3. ‘I gained more knowledge about myself. It was difficult and at first I didn’t want to try it because I thought it was too dangerous. Then when I tried I loved it. It was good for me.’ Kwenele Sithole, Imbali 2nd year student. ‘It was fun; I felt my muscles working and stretching. I felt strong doing these things’. Grace Mmokwa, Imbali 2nd year student. ‘Doing acrobalance was an exciting and new experience for me. I learnt to trust my body.’ Bongeka Ntandane, Imbali 2nd year student. ‘I learnt it’s not about size. Seeing those big people on top of Irene made me realise this.’ Mondle Khobeni, Imbali 2nd year student.