Kung Fu master thrills kids
PERFORM: MJ Li at Elswood Primary School PERFORM: MJ Li at Elswood Primary School
The event, organised by community worker Rachmat Campbell, was aimed at bringing some relief and self-empowerment to school children amid ongoing gang violence.
Children from both Elswood and Leonsdale primary schools attended the demonstrations.
She says ahead of the school exams next month, she planned the day which included a live demonstration by Muhammad Junaid Shafeker, aka MJ Li, on how to defend themselves without the use of weapons.
“Our children are so traumatised with all the shootings and stuff that is going on in Leonsdale,” says Rachmat.
“The exams are right around the corner and our children are so scared when they come to school, going through all these things that when they get here, they are not lus to do anything.
“This event is about bringing some excitement while tackling some important issues.”
Among the attractions on the day was a live dog show by the SAPS K9 Unit who did an exhibit of some of their narcotics dogs.
Children were asked to suggest places of where drugs should be hidden and the various dogs were set to find the hidden drugs.
“Daar kry hy die drugs!” a little boy shouted in amazement.
The unit also did an exhibit of their attack dogs who are trained to take down gunmen.
During the karate and Kung Fu demonstrations, the children were taught how to break free from strangers when attacked or being held down.
Campbell says all roleplayers made a significant difference in the lives of little ones in Leonsdale.