In 2013 David Cornelson founded Project 021, a non-profit organisation that seeks to uplift communities through performing arts.
Cornelson, who grew up in Lotus River in a family of six siblings, reckons performing arts has always been part of his life.
“My parents enjoyed dance and would teach us line dancing on Saturdays. As children, we would dress up in our parents’ clothes and tell stories about them through acting,” Cornelson says.
Project 021 presents regular classes to develop performing arts disciplines and creates showcase events where children can measure their growth.
“I wanted to create a space for young people to be exposed to the fun, enjoyment, and the disciplines of the arts, without finance being a reason for them to be excluded,” Cornelson explains.
Over the years he has witnessed the benefits and participants’ personal development across various disciplines such as dance and drama.
Worthy of success
“Most children have the potential to achieve success. In my observation, what holds them back is not their ability, but their lack of confidence to attempt something new.
“Low self-esteem also makes them feel that excelling in a particular task is only for others. Through exposure to the arts, they can overcome those limiting mindsets and consider themselves worthy of success.”
Cornelson remembers a child who had a severe speech impediment and struggled with confidence.
“Through exposure to the arts, the child grew in confidence, eventually started acting, and performed in several productions at the Baxter Theatre.”
Initiatives like Project 021 also have a broader social impact – especially in communities that may lack access to opportunities.
“The fundamental impact is that it keeps children constructively occupied in a safe space.
“The deeper impact is the development of each individual through regular intervention and positive influence. It can literally change the trajectory of a child’s life.
“The arts cross social, religious and racial barriers and is a powerful method of community and nation building,” Cornelson says.
