Tin Can Town 16/04/2009. Blikkiesdorp. Cape Flats, Cape Town. South Africa. The residents of Blikkiesdorp live in one of the poorest communities on the Cape Flats and are subjected to violent crimes, rape and robberies. Still the community of Blikkiesdorp keep their heads and spirits up. 4000 People call these steel structures and the sand dunes surrounding it, home. They live in close proximity to each other and the family atmosphere that binds all these poor individuals together brought tears to my eyes. The monotone structures and grey palette of the scenery leaves you with little to be exited about. It was not until I met Ouma that my mind changed. I was seeing a different world through my lens and I was learning how these unfortunate people can have such colourful lives amidst the emptiness and greys.Even though all the heartache and pain that these people are suffering breaks your heart, the sense of positivity and will to survive is contagious. Many community members run their own little shops to provide the necessities for every day survival. Living from hand to hand, day to day. Caring for and looking after each other.I was moved by the simplicity of the people, their will to survive, the feeling of community. I left Blikkiesdorp wondering what it is that binds people together in difficulty like that. This particular feature on Blikkiesdorp inspired a positive atmosphere in the community. The pastors, priests and leaders of the community posted the pages on walls and in the community halls. Upon my return to Blikkiesdorp to deliver some papers I spoke to some of the residents and they were so proud and said that the positive portrayal is encouraging and that it is better to see good news of their village for a change.Blikkiesdorp is in the news most of the time because of violent rapes of Toddlers and children. I believe that features like these, portraying the good in a community would not only inspire people that live in communities, but it will also encourage them to live better and healthier lives. Photo Lizane Louw
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