Magnet Theatre: Equipping Youth for a Transforming World

As the world continues to change at an unprecedented pace, young people face growing pressures to navigate uncertainty, adapt to shifting realities, and find their voice in complex environments. At the HCI Foundation, our 2025 AGM theme, “A Transforming World: Fostering Resilience and Adaptability in Young People,” reflects our commitment to supporting youth in developing the skills they need to thrive.

Among our valued partners contributing to this work is Magnet Theatre, whose unique approach to youth development powerfully aligns with this year’s AGM theme.

Theatre as a Tool for Transformation
Magnet Theatre is a physical theatre company based in Cape Town that uses the performing arts to transform lives. Through its highly regarded Youth Training and Job Creation Programme, Magnet Theatre provides young people — many from under-resourced communities — with intensive, world-class training in theatre, movement, and performance.

• Participants not only learn acting and physical theatre techniques but also develop essential life skills such as:
• Communication and public speaking
• Teamwork and collaboration
• Confidence and self-expression
• Emotional intelligence
• Problem-solving and creative thinking

These are critical attributes for building resilience and adaptability — qualities that serve young people far beyond the stage.

Opening Pathways to Employment and Education
In addition to developing personal capacity, Magnet Theatre’s programme creates pathways for further education, employment, and professional development within the creative industries and beyond. Many graduates go on to study further, secure employment in the arts, or apply their new-found skills in leadership roles within their communities.

By merging artistic excellence with personal growth, Magnet Theatre provides young people with a foundation for navigating life’s challenges and opportunities — equipping them to thrive in a transforming world.

Empowering Youth for an Uncertain Future
As we gather for the HCI Foundation’s 2025 AGM, we are honoured to spotlight the important work of Magnet Theatre. Their commitment to empowering young people to find confidence, voice, and resilience through performance embodies the very spirit of adaptability that is essential in today’s rapidly changing global landscape.

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HCI Foundation AGM 2025:

Date: 23 July 2025
Time: 10:00 – 12:00
Platform: Virtual Meeting

Register here to receive the meeting link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfRFRNgFA2tIMX0deJpsKAHbY8DZ8DFhl6CnDpMfeHG0n83iA/viewform?usp=header