Pokot Acrobatics

In 2010, following a period of ethnic violence and drought, we gathered a group of 40 youths who had all been involved in violence, crime and poaching. Long conversations revealed that many lacked a purpose in life and were bored so poaching and cattle rustling had come to be seen as entertainment, and a way to get recognition.

We gave them an alternative through acrobatics and performance which they combine with their breath-taking song and dance and story-telling. Now these young men have traveled far and wide with their performance and have become heroes, mentors and trainers for the youth in the area, advocating peace and educating their peers against poaching. The acrobatics has taught them vital life skills, discipline and team-work and they have become employable.

The troupe has grown and they conduct trainings in schools and catalyze community projects such as bee keeping and rain water harvesting. The Pokot Youth Acrobatics Team are the drivers of change in their community. Now we are training them to be Wildlife Guardians.

Have a look at our gallery of stunning acrobatic images by Pokot Acrobats:

 

Stay tuned for exciting updates on Pokot Community Wildlife Guardians protecting the wildlife in the crucial corridors outside the conservancy, micro-finance schemes started by the acrobats, a mobile cinema educating communities – or email svevagallmann@gmail.com for more information and how you can support an acrobat as a catalyst for positive change.

 

Creative Thinking Inspires Ideas, Ideas Inspire Change. (By Barbara Januskiewicz)

Make a difference by supporting this project!

Support an Acrobat Advocate for a month $50 or for a year $600. We can send you information, photos and updates from your Acrobat!

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