If you want to know what South Africa really looks and feels like, then you need to visit a South African Village called Ndlovu and meet Uncle John. I spent many Sundays, driving many hours to get there from my home in Johannesburg. At first, you’ll see shacks, goats and a cement area with a row of faucets/taps sticking out of the ground for running water. A real luxury in this area.

Think of a Kelloggs Cereal box. Can you think of a creative way to recycle it?  Imagine it on a child's back, tied with string around the shoulders to make a very proud, happy, school bag for books. I didn't notice the children with their bags, but Sianne stopped driving and showed me. I spent the day with enthusiastic, teenage actors who use their free time to create. I watched, I listened, and I directed. I saw their struggles and heard their questions , we worked together to bring their powerful story to stage.

There is nothing ordinary about someone who has overcome something to achieve peace, understanding and meaning. This inspires us to do to the same. That’s why we love stories. Story telling has evolved but our need to share, listen, watch and follow hasn’t. I came to teach structure and set, but I quickly learnt that this mystical village is the greatest Storyteller. Sianne, a kind, and talented speech therapist introduced me to this drama group and to Uncle John.

After a long, productive day, we went to visit Uncle John, a sports coach for paraplegics. He was unfortunately mourning his dear, beloved wife, who had recently passed. And I accompanied Sianne. She told me to accept a drink, if offered, so that no one gets offended. Uncle John was happy to see his young friend, he was in a wheelchair, sitting outside his small, handmade brick house. Sianne taught him to read at the age of Sixty. I immediately knew there was something special about him. I could see his wisdom and feel his warmth, he was surrounded by loving children, siblings and relatives, we joined them.

We sat in a circle, on fold out plastic chairs, next to us was a happy, cozy baby enjoying the warm, winter sun in the arms of his Aunties. We were offered something to drink and Sianne got up to help. Uncle John explained to his friends and family around us that Sianne only eats and drinks specific things allowed by her culture. He looked at me and said that his people understand different cultures and respect people that follow it, so Sianne has nothing to worry about...

Today was a perfect day. I had a rehearsel with the most talented, enthusiastic storytellers of all time, and I witnessed (again!) the beauty of Africa, embodied by Uncle John. I loved every second, I traveled from one world to another, so different on the outside and so similar on the inside. This is a special place, home to rhythm, hope and love.

Please leave your limitations outside and join us on the path to greatness. Together with Jabu and the Ndlovu Drama School ‘Simple Son of Africa” was born. A comedy about the vibrant city of Johannesburg, a king, a village and the simple truths of happiness.