- Nic Matthee steps down as project manager of Touched by Style after years of significant contributions.
- Samantha Bring and Patrick Lategan will lead exciting new projects, including the Zombie Apocalypse Challenge in 2025.
- Touched by Style continues to inspire Cape Flats youth through innovative community arts programmes.
The Touched by Style Community Arts Project has announced that long time project manager, Nic Matthee, has stepped down.
Samantha Bring and Patrick Lategan will take on the responsibility for upcoming projects as they aim to cultivate hope and a positive outlook for the talented youth in the Cape Flats community.
“Nic has been an invaluable source of inspiration, dedicating significant effort to the community while navigating various challenges, ultimately becoming the positive force that was essential. His contributions have received international acclaim, resulting in 14 awards for his work in the Cape Flats, despite his decision to withdraw from community engagement in the performing arts. Nic holds a degree in sectional title management from the University of Cape Town and will continue to pursue this field full-time,” says Brink.
Optimism
While many are saddened by his departure, there remains a sense of optimism regarding the opportunities that lie ahead.
Since 2021, Matthee has designed, directed, and managed 11 film projects, involving talented individuals and helping to secure careers in the performing arts for some participants. These projects featured historical locations and included a diverse array of participants of all ages, as well as training and workshops in stunt and martial arts, practical make-up, and special effects.
READ MORE: Touched by Style’s new community film has been released
“We are currently engaged in a significant transition and handover process due to Matthee’s extensive portfolio within the TBS programme, as Lategan will assume the project manager role. New and exciting community projects are set to commence in March 2025, including the Zombie Apocalypse Challenge aimed at school students across the Cape,” says Brink.
Will be missed
The Touched By Style project was established to provide a transformative and unique experience for talented individuals in the Cape Flats, and it has evolved into a successful programme over the past three years.
“Matthee also served as the chair of the Belhar Neighbourhood Development Forum in 2012, vice chair of the Freestyle Dance League in Mitchells Plain from 2011 till 2014, and founded the Floorkiller Hope Foundation, continuing to achieve success by winning six international dance competitions. We will miss him, but wish him well,” says Brink.
- For more information about TBS and their programmes send an email to touchedbystyle21@gmail.com.
