After reclaiming their lives on the theatre stage, the members of JAM are moving behind the scenes to ensure they can generate sustainable income, break cycles of poverty, and inspire others.
Johannesburg, South Africa (10 March 2026) – The arts have the power to do so much more than just entertain. They restore identity, build confidence and open doors where none seemed possible.
Though some may underestimate the power of the arts, Johannesburg Awakening Minds (JAM) proves its impact, having helped a group of individuals transition from life on the streets to one on the stage with renewed purpose.
Founded in July 2012 by Dorothy Ann Gould, JAM is a theatre troupe comprised of 13 previously homeless gentlemen, many of whom battled addiction, before finding something extraordinary: dignity, purpose and voice.
Under the mentorship of Dorothy, a true doyenne of South African theatre, these performers were trained in Shakespeare, poetry, song and dance. They perform in halls and theatres across Johannesburg, and through theatre, they rediscovered confidence, discipline and the ability to imagine a different future.
Thanks to a generous trust donation, The Angel Network Gauteng was able to send the JAM performers on a range of professional courses to upskill them and deepen their exposure to the theatre industry.
“And the transformation has been remarkable,” The Angel Network shares.
“But this is only the beginning. The group is now ready for the next step in their journey: establishing a small production company alongside their performance work.”
As talented as they are, the reality is that the group’s current theatre work provides very limited and unsustainable earnings. Without further support, this extraordinary momentum could stall.
A production company would help JAM performers apply the professional skills they have developed, generate sustainable income beyond occasional performances, mentor young people in their communities and create jobs that will help break cycles of poverty.
“With the right backing, however, the JAM performers can turn their talent into a sustainable creative enterprise, one that not only supports them but uplifts others along the way.”
The Network is currently appealing to corporates, foundations and organisations that are looking to support a project where creativity meets real social impact, to partner with JAM.
“Together we can ensure that a group of people who once had nothing now have a stage, a livelihood and the power to inspire others.”
If you would like to help support the next chapter of JAM’s journey, please reach out to The Angel Network or email johannesburgawakeningminds@gmail.com.
Sources: The Angel Network Gauteng
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