Ubuntu choir visit

Ubuntu dazzles the Star community in April

The internationally-acclaimed Ubuntu African Children’s Choir performed workshops, in assemblies and at two memorable concerts in the Patricia Carroll Auditorium. The choir toured the world as children, performing for US Presidents and various celebrities. Now aged between 18 and 20 years, they recently graduated from high school and are preparing to enter university on their journey to becoming Africa’s future leaders.

Principal Sandra Diafas reflects: I rapidly came to realise that this five-day visit was far more than a sharing of musical talent. A deeper and equally meaningful interaction was taking place - in fact the Ubuntu’s visit to Star was, indeed, a gift to our community. These remarkable young people sang with Stacella at our Easter liturgy, ran workshops for St James and Star students, performed at two public concerts in Patricia Carroll Auditorium, played soccer in Presentation Place, organised a flash mob in Federation Square and lived with Star families. Through each and every interaction, a stronger bond was formed. It was a joy to hear laughter and beautiful singing, and to witness the friendships develop. Members of Ubuntu have known great adversity in their short lives and yet they remain open to embracing each new day and experience. They truly are Easter people, reminding each of us, young and not so young, that it does not matter what you possess; it is who you truly are that matters. They, too, felt a deep connection with the Star community and are hoping to return again next year. I was very proud of the warm welcome extended to our visitors by our community, and am extremely grateful to the families who shared their homes. A very special thank you to Stacella Coordinator, Ms Tenille Kearney, for her perseverance, organisation and commitment to ensuring this visit became a reality. It has been a visit we will never forget.

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4 1. Ubuntu & Star - concert finale! 2. Ubuntu & Stacella with Channel 10's Mike Larkin 3. Tenille Kearney conducts the combined choirs at the Easter liturgy 4. Dance workshop