The donation of more than 9 000 superior quality Corobrik Cedarberg and Burgundy pavers finished off the refurbishment of Johannesburg Youth Orchestra Company’s (JYOC) new premises at the University of Johannesburg’s Bunting Road Campus.
Originating in the mid-1990s, the musical NGO provides quality music tuition to the youth in Gauteng. Originally based at Wits Education Campus in Parktown, discussions in 2010 kicked off the move to the better-equipped facilities at the University of Johannesburg’s old hostel kitchen.
“The position of the hostel is slightly away from the rest of the campus, making it an ideal space for tuition of our students, as music is not a quiet occupation!” explained Susan Rendall, chief executive officer of JYOC.
In 2012, JYOC secured a R3 million donation from Workerslife (a subsidiary of Popcru Group of Companies) and in 2013, a three-way agreement between JYOC, Popcru and UJ was signed.
The building was completely gutted and remodelled with an office space, teaching studios, rehearsal space, a classroom and a large storeroom. Because of building delays Rendall was concerned that the project would not be completed within budget. Rendall was proactive and started securing building material donations from various organisations. One of the companies Rendall approached for a donation was Corobrik.
A significant paved area was planned and Corobrik agreed to supply clay pavers for this area, as well as a planter box which was built in the middle of the space. According to Rendall, the paved area was previously covered with concrete that had become severely damaged over time.
The combination of Cedarberg and Burgundy pavers blended in effortlessly with the new structure, creating a welcoming, even flow into the building.
Musa Shangase, Commercial Director for Corobrik, said the clay pavers would remain visually appealing for years to come because of the durable, colourfast nature of Corobrik’s range. The pavers are a great finishing touch to this beautiful facility while the skid-resistant nature of the clay pavers provides a further safety features for the users.
Shangase said Corobrik was dedicated to assisting young South Africans with cultural upliftment. “We are proud to support an organisation, such as the Johannesburg Youth Orchestra, which provides our children with a foundation in music, a unifying and uplifting medium.”
Rendall said the JYOC team was extremely grateful for the contribution and through this incredibly generous donation, and others like it, we were able to complete the project exactly on budget
