LONDON, UK – A group of talented young people from the Medway African and Caribbean Association ( MACA) took to the stage at a major benefit concert recently, helping to raise more than £20,000 for the Food for the Poor Charity. The event, which drew an audience of over 2,000 people, was organised to support vital relief efforts following the devastation of Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.
The group, aged between 11 and 25, were given their biggest opportunity to date to take part in the star studded event. Six members delivered a high-energy live performance to open the show, who were taught by Titi aged 17 , during their weekly youth programme , while others , worked alongside Film Producer Andrei Allen to document the experience. Youth members Yeni and Temitayo demonstrated immense professionalism, filming the event and conducting exclusive backstage interviews with reggae icons including Maxi Priest , Carroll Thompson, Janet Kay, Levi Roots and event organisers Orlando Gittens and Peter Hunnigale.
High Praise from Industry Icons
Following the performance, the young artists were personally congratulated by event organisers Orlando Gittens and Peter Hunnigale, alongside other performing artists and members of the public.
Orlando Gittens praised the group’s dedication:
“When I saw them in rehearsals, I could see how talented they were. You wouldn’t know this was their first time on a stage of this size. They should be really proud; it’s great to see young people doing great things. The event was a huge success, raising much-needed funds, and I would like to thank all the artists, backstage team, volunteers, and the over 2,000 people that turned out to support the show.”
Dr Carol Stewart, reflecting on the achievement, added:
“I was so very proud of all the young people; there wasn’t a sign of any nerves at all. They totally owned the stage and gave an outstanding performance. Yeni and Tayo worked with such professionalism—this was a once-in-a-lifetime experience with memories that will last a lifetime. We are very fortunate to have received funding from the National Lottery Community Fund plus support from Medway Council to enable the youth programme to be delivered to young people from all backgrounds across Kent and Medway “
Building a Legacy: “Place to Be” Youth Club
The momentum from this performance is fuelling the group’s next chapter. Supported by the National Lottery Community Fund, the participants are continuing their journey through performing arts workshops , music production and film production training.
The project is also officially establishing a new youth club titled “Place to Be,” designed to provide a safe space for young people to come together, learn new skills, and participate in creative activities. To find out more about the programme and to get involved email admin@macacharity.org.uk